The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has appointed Nigerian tech and social entrepreneur Zephia Ovia-Ikem as a UNICEF NextGen Champion, a role focused on mobilizing private sector leaders and innovators to promote the rights and wellbeing of children and young people across Nigeria.
Announcing the appointment, Wafaa Saeed, UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, said Ovia-Ikem joins a global network of investors, philanthropists, and business leaders dedicated to accelerating progress for children and youth.
A long-time advocate for Generation Unlimited Nigeria (GenU 9JA), Ovia-Ikem will lead advocacy and partnership efforts to expand access to education, innovation, and economic opportunities for young Nigerians.
“Children and youths in Nigeria are our greatest asset,” she said. “I look forward to working with UNICEF to mobilize resources and networks that help every child and youth thrive.”
As a NextGen Champion, Ovia-Ikem will leverage her influence in the tech and business sectors to amplify UNICEF’s programs, raise awareness, and mobilize funding for child-focused initiatives nationwide.
UNICEF’s NextGen initiative brings together emerging leaders who use their expertise to drive impact in education, health, climate resilience, and digital innovation. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with advocates like Ovia-Ikem to ensure every child—especially the most vulnerable—has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
