The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with sub-national governments to boost investments in social protection systems.
Speaking at the official launch of the Supporting Sustainable Social Protection System (SUSI) Project in Ibadan on Monday, UNICEF’s Chief of Lagos Field Office, Celine Lafoucriere, emphasised the agency’s dedication to supporting inclusive development.
The SUSI Project—a collaborative initiative between UNICEF and the International Labour Organisation (ILO), with funding from the European Union—aims to improve the lives of the most vulnerable through expanded access to healthcare, education, and social services.
Lafoucriere applauded the Oyo State Government for proactive steps such as creating a Social Protection Policy, establishing a dedicated coordination department, and drafting a bill to institutionalise social protection.
She, however, acknowledged that despite these efforts, challenges persist—especially in extending coverage to children, women, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
The SUSI Project is expected to help address these gaps and accelerate the implementation of sustainable, inclusive, and well-funded social protection systems in the state.
