Dutse: The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has inaugurated the second phase of the Climate Resilient Infrastructure for Basic Services (CRIBS II) project in Jigawa State to strengthen schools and healthcare facilities against the growing impacts of climate change.
The project, funded by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and UNICEF, will support 13 healthcare facilities and 10 schools across the state.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Dutse on Thursday, UNICEF Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Specialist, Dr Uba Lawal, said the gathering was aimed at deepening government ownership of the project and reviewing lessons from the first phase.
According to him, the initiative is designed to make schools and healthcare facilities more resilient to climate-related challenges while improving access to essential services.
Lawal said the second phase of the project would be implemented in Gwaram, Auyo, Jahun and Maigatari Local Government Areas.
He noted that the meeting provided an avenue for contractors, government officials and other stakeholders to discuss implementation strategies and ensure quality service delivery.
Lawal also warned contractors and project supervisors against compromising agreed standards and contractual obligations.
UNICEF Chief of Field Office, Kano, Mr Shafeeq Rehman, commended stakeholders for their commitment to the project, describing the meeting as a demonstration of transparency and accountability.
Rehman praised the Jigawa State Government for its strong partnership with UNICEF and other development agencies.
“As someone new to Nigeria, I am impressed by the Jigawa State Government’s commitment to development projects implemented in collaboration with UNICEF and other partners.
“The state’s dedication has positioned it as a model for successful interventions, attracting interest from other states seeking to replicate its achievements,” he said.
Also speaking, UNICEF Health Specialist, Saudat Basheer, cautioned contractors against engaging underage children as labourers on project sites.
She expressed concern over reports of child labour in some communities, noting that the practice contributes to the growing number of out-of-school children.
Dr Shehu Sambo, Director of the Jigawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, lauded UNICEF and the UK Government for their continued support to the state.
He disclosed that the administration of Gov. Umar Namadi had revitalised about 204 healthcare facilities, while rehabilitation work was ongoing in another 77 facilities.
Sambo urged contractors to maintain cordial relationships with host communities to foster a conducive working environment and ensure project success.
He added that the CRIBS project would complement the state’s efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage and improve service delivery.
The director also called for the inclusion of perimeter fencing in healthcare facilities to enhance security and support quality healthcare services.
