By Oyem Jonathan
In a renewed demonstration of partnership for child rights and grassroots development, UNICEF has commenced the distribution of birth certificates to children born in 2023 across Aniocha South Local Government Area, Delta State.
Chairman Aniocha South LGC
Speaking during the flag-off, the Executive Chairman of Aniocha South Local Government Council, Hon. Pastor Jude Chukwunwike,has applauded UNICEF for its long-standing collaboration in safeguarding children’s rights and promoting inclusive development. He described the organization’s support as “immeasurable,” noting that its interventions have continually advanced global visions of equity, survival, and sustainable growth.
Represented by the Head of Personnel Management (HPM), Mr. Austin Akaeze, Chukwunwike pledged the council’s unwavering support for UNICEF’s initiatives and reiterated his administration’s commitment to aligning with the vision of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), which emphasizes responsive governance, community empowerment, and sustainable service delivery.
“Our collaboration with UNICEF and ALGON has yielded remarkable successes in critical sectors of human development.
We will continue to implement ALGON’s vision in line with the Sustainable Development Strategy (SDS), ensuring no child is left behind,” Chukwunwike affirmed.
Earlier, the Delta State UNICEF/ALGON focal person for Aniocha South, Mr. Sammy Okonta commended the council chairman for providing an enabling environment for UNICEF programmes.
He explained that the presentation of birth certificates is not merely a routine exercise but a fundamental step in child protection, national data base enrollment drive, policy formulation and social inclusion.
“A birth certificate is the first legal recognition of a child’s existence. It secures their identity, protects their rights, and opens the door to education, healthcare, and social protection,” Okonta said.
In a symbolic gesture to flag off the distribution, the council chairman represented by Mr. Akaeze, presented the 2023 batch of certificates to healthcare professionals, Mrs. Chidi Francisca, Matron-in-Charge of Ogwashi-Uku Primary Health Centre, and Mrs. Mekwunye Christiana, Nurse-in-Charge of Ubulu-Okiti Primary Health Centre.
He charged primary healthcare workers across the council to remain diligent, uphold professional ethics, and build trust with the communities they serve, describing them as “the frontline custodians of child survival and growth.”
The event underscored the shared vision of UNICEF and ALGON – to strengthen health systems, protect the rights of every child, and advance sustainable local development through inclusive governance.
Comrade Michael-Jay Ofunne , P.A on Media and Publicity to the executive chairman and other council appointees witnessed the ceremony.
