The United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) and the Oyo State Government have signed the 2011-2012 Multiyear Programme Implementation Agreement. At the signing ceremony in Ibadan, the governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, promised to deliver sound and institutional framework that would guarantee the progressive realisation of children’s right to survival.
The signing ceremony, which took place at the Council Chambers of the Governor’s Office, was witnessed by top government officials.
While addressing the UNICEF team, Senator Ajimobi, re-affirmed the commitment of his administration to UNICEF-assisted programmes, and assured the organisation of the administration’s preparedness to release the government’s counterpart cash contribution.
He explained that the government would be determined and proactive in the pursuit of concrete and practical solutions that would transform and empower the women and the generality of the people.
“As a new administration, part of our plans for addressing the challenges of growth and development of the State is to remain committed to creating the right environment with the support of development partners like UNICEF, Private Investors and Organisations, towards improving the well-being of the people of the state.” the governor said.
Governor Ajimobi, who said the ultimate goal of his administration was to provide an enabling socio-economic environment for commerce and investments, also promised that the government would prioritise the issue of women and children who he said were “very dear to the heart of the administration.”
Earlier in her speech, the Assistant Country Representative of UNICEF Mrs Sara Nyanti said the overall goal of UNICEF’S Country Programme was to contribute to the realisation of children’s right and vision 20:2020.
She however commended the State Government for earmarking the sum of N500million as counterpart funding to ensure impact on the lives of women and children at all levels.
Highlight of the event was the signing of the Programme Implementation Agreement and exchange of gifts by UNICEF and Oyo State Government.?