
The Gombe State Government has officially signed the 2025-2027 UNICEF Workplan, reinforcing its commitment to improving health, education, and child protection across the state.
The Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Alhaji Salihu Baba Alkali, signed the workplan on behalf of the state government on Friday, following the directive of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.
Alhaji Alkali explained that the three-year harmonised workplan, developed in collaboration with UNICEF, outlines critical interventions aimed at enhancing the well-being of children and vulnerable populations in Gombe.
He revealed that the total budget for the initiative stands at $4,103,300, out of which $1,449,497 is already funded, while over $2 million is expected to be mobilised.
Highlighting previous successes recorded through UNICEF’s partnership with the state, Alhaji Alkali noted that the new workplan focuses on health, child protection, social policy, and social and behavioural change.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, UNICEF’s Chief of Field Office, Bauchi, commended the dynamic leadership of Governor Inuwa Yahaya, acknowledging the administration’s dedication to advancing child welfare.
She stressed that UNICEF remains committed to reaching every child and ensuring that no one is left behind.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser Donor Partner Coordination, Dr. Isiaku Babayo, lauded UNICEF’s significant contributions to health, education, WASH Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) in Gombe State.
Dr. Babayo expressed optimism about the successful implementation of the workplan and reaffirmed the state government’s resolve to strengthen its partnership with UNICEF to improve the lives of children.