UNICEF Urges State Governments to Boost Social Sector Funding in 2026 Budgets
As state governments under the Bauchi Field Office of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) prepare their 2026 budget proposals, they have been urged to increase allocations for the social sector. This call comes as part of efforts to ensure the well-being of children and women across the region.
The states covered by the Bauchi Field Office include Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Plateau, and Taraba. The initiative was highlighted during a one-day review meeting of 2025 programs held in Bauchi, where Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, the Chief of Field Office at UNICEF Bauchi, emphasized the need for increased funding in key areas.
Key Sectors Requiring Attention
Dr. Nuzhat Rafique identified five critical sectors that should receive more attention:Health, Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), Nutrition, Social Protection, and Education. These areas are essential for improving the overall wellbeing of children and women in the region.
She stated, “The State governments should allocate more funds to the social sector in their 2026 budgets. We have ongoing campaigns on out-of-school children, health, nutrition, social protection, and WASH.”
The UNICEF official also praised the commitment of the reviewed states to development initiatives, particularly in the payment of counterpart funding for the procurement of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF). This initiative is crucial in the fight against severe acute malnutrition among children under five years old.
Progress in RUTF Procurement
“It is commendable that Bauchi, Gombe, and Plateau States have fulfilled their commitments. Supplies have been completed for Gombe and Plateau, while that of Bauchi is in progress,” she added.
In addition to this, Dr. Nuzhat Rafique acknowledged the efforts of states and local governments in returning children to school and strengthening community-based interventions. She noted that these efforts are vital in addressing the challenges faced by children in accessing education and basic services.
Continued Support from UNICEF
Dr. Nuzhat Rafique assured that UNICEF will continue to support the states in various intervention areas within the social sector, focusing on the well-being of women and children.
She explained, “UNICEF is only an intervention agency supporting the implementation of various programs by the states. We are more concerned in seeing that the programs were implemented based on the work plans.”
This collaboration between UNICEF and state governments aims to ensure that the needs of vulnerable populations are met through effective planning and execution of programs.
Ongoing Campaigns and Initiatives
UNICEF has been actively involved in several campaigns aimed at improving the lives of children and women in the region. These include efforts to reduce the number of out-of-school children, improve access to healthcare, enhance nutrition, and strengthen social protection systems.
The organization also emphasizes the importance of hygiene and sanitation, which are critical components of public health and child development.
Looking Ahead
As the 2026 budget proposals are being prepared, the emphasis on increasing social sector funding remains a priority. This focus is expected to lead to better outcomes in the areas of health, education, and nutrition, ultimately contributing to the long-term development of the region.
With continued support from UNICEF and the commitment of state governments, there is hope for significant improvements in the lives of children and women in the Bauchi Field Office area.