A staggering 89.

The shocking statistics were revealed during the launch of the Jigawa General Household Survey at the Government House banquet hall in Dutse by Rahama Rihood Mohammed Farah, Chief of UNICEF’s Kano Field Office. Represented by Michael Banda, Farah emphasized the dire need for intervention from all 27 local government councils in the state to improve living conditions for affected children.

Shocking Poverty Figures & Urgent Call for Action

Farah stated, “89.4% of children experience monetary poverty, while 85.6% suffer from multidimensional poverty—meaning they lack basic necessities in at least three key areas, including health, education, nutrition, water and sanitation, shelter, access to information, and child protection.”

UNICEF has urgently called for immediate intervention to tackle these alarming child poverty levels, stressing the need for stronger collective efforts to secure a better future for Jigawa’s children.

Farah further emphasized, “These figures reveal a harsh reality—children in Jigawa are deprived of essential needs that affect their well-being and future. This highlights the urgent necessity for coordinated efforts to reduce poverty and improve their quality of life.”

Strengthening Systems for Child Welfare

UNICEF acknowledged progress in enhancing child poverty measurement systems through the General Household Survey (GHS) and developing effective policies and action plans. The organization stressed that local government leaders must leverage this data for multisectoral planning to drive impactful action against child poverty in Jigawa.

The report suggested key measures such as:

• Approval of an expanded social protection policy
• Passage of a revised social protection bill
• Increased budget allocation for child-focused programs in health, education, and social protection
• 30% increase in birth registration for children under five

Jigawa State Government’s Commitment to Action

Jigawa State Governor Malam Umar Namadi reassured that his administration would use the data collected by the State Bureau for Statistics to drive effective decision-making. He acknowledged that the findings offer valuable insights into the state’s standing in key sectors and will be instrumental in shaping future policies.

Governor Namadi called on local governments, ministries, departments, and agencies to utilize the data for better policy implementation to improve the lives of vulnerable children across the state.

UNICEF Commends Jigawa’s Efforts & Reinforces Partnership

Farah praised the Jigawa State Government for its commitment to advancing child welfare through evidence-based policymaking. He highlighted UNICEF’s strong partnership with Jigawa in key sectors such as health, education, nutrition, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), child protection, and social protection.

The report underscores the urgent need for action to combat child poverty in Jigawa. Strengthened social protection initiatives, increased funding, and data-driven decision-making will be crucial in ensuring a brighter future for Jigawa’s children.