UNICEF Names Zephia Ovia-Ikem as NextGen Champion

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Wafaa Saeed, has announced the appointment of Zephia Ovia-Ikem as UNICEF NextGen Champion.

The announcement was contained in a statement issued by UNICEF Communication and Advocacy Specialist, Susan Akila, and made available to newsmen on Thursday.

“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,” Saeed stated.

A tech and social entrepreneur as well as an advocate for youth empowerment, Ovia-Ikem has been a strong supporter of UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited Nigeria (GenU 9JA) initiative since its inception.

“As NextGen Champion, Zephia will rally business leaders around the rights and needs of children and young people, while leveraging her networks and platforms to raise awareness and mobilize resources to advance UNICEF’s work across Nigeria,” the statement added.

In her remarks, Ovia-Ikem said, “Children and youths in Nigeria represent our greatest asset and brightest future. I am passionate about working alongside UNICEF to mobilize resources, networks, and commitments needed to ensure that every child and youth in Nigeria can thrive and gain access to sustainable pathways for better economic opportunities.”

UNICEF NextGen is a global community of emerging leaders who use their resources, expertise, and influence to drive innovative solutions for children. The initiative supports projects in education, health, climate resilience, and digital innovation.

Globally, UNICEF NextGen members have mobilized funds for emergency responses, promoted long-term investments in education and innovation, and amplified children’s voices on international platforms.