By Adeyinka Adeniran
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has appointed Zephia Ovia-Ikem as a NextGen Champion, joining a global network of investors, philanthropists, and private sector leaders committed to advancing children’s rights and accelerating progress for children and young people in Nigeria.
According to Wafaa Saeed, UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, “I am proud to welcome Zephia Ovia-Ikem as UNICEF NextGen Champion, joining a global network of investors, philanthropists, and private sector leaders committed to advancing children’s rights and accelerating progress for children and young people in Nigeria.”
As NextGen Champion, Zephia Ovia-Ikem will rally business leaders around children and young people’s rights and needs, utilizing her networks and platforms to create awareness and mobilize resources to help accelerate progress for UNICEF’s work across Nigeria. Zephia has been a strong supporter of UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited Nigeria (GenU 9JA) initiative since its inception.
“I am passionate to work alongside UNICEF to mobilize resources, networks, and commitment needed to ensure that every child and youth in Nigeria can thrive and have access to sustainable pathways for better economic opportunities,” said Zephia Ovia-Ikem. “Children and youths in Nigeria represent our greatest asset and brightest future.”
The UNICEF NextGen initiative brings together emerging leaders who use their expertise to drive impact in education, health, climate resilience, and digital innovation. The network has mobilized resources for emergency responses and long-term investments that amplify children’s voices globally.¹ ² ³
