NFF, UNICEF to Partner on Polio Eradication and Girl-Child Protection Campaigns
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have begun discussions to formalize a partnership aimed at advancing campaigns for polio eradication and girl-child protection.
At a meeting held Wednesday at the NFF Secretariat, General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi welcomed a UNICEF delegation led by Lone Hvass, Chief of Communication, Advocacy and Partnership.
Both organizations explored avenues of collaboration to improve the lives of Nigerian children, particularly girls, through awareness and advocacy initiatives.
Hvass highlighted the role of football stars as powerful voices for change: ‘Our objective is to engage a couple of players of the Super Falcons to speak out about polio, raise awareness, and address other key issues affecting children. Families and even the children pay attention when trusted, well-known figures speak on these issues.’
Dr. Sanusi expressed strong support for UNICEF’s mission: ‘Polio has had a devastating impact on children in Africa, Nigeria inclusive. Any effort to protect children from polio and other related diseases is welcome, and you have our full support in this initiative.’
He added that the NFF would also involve players from the U20 and U17 girls’ national teams in the campaigns.
The partnership is expected to culminate in a Memorandum of Understanding, paving the way for joint campaigns that leverage football’s influence to combat polio, discourage child molestation, and promote the protection and empowerment of the girl-child.
