Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has expressed his administration's commitment to strengthening partnership with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) to enhance the welfare of children across the state.

The Governor made this known while receiving UNICEF Country Representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate, at the Governor's Lodge in Amawbia on Monday.

During the meeting, Soludo emphasized the special place UNICEF holds in his heart, acknowledging the organization's enormous strides in improving children's health and education across Nigeria.

"UNICEF has a special place in my heart. Your organization has made enormous strides in improving the health and education of children across Nigeria, and we are proud to be partners in these efforts," Soludo stated.

The Governor highlighted the critical role of youth and children as "the bridge to the future," stressing that their health and education are fundamental to sustainable development.

"We are eager to expand the partnership with UNICEF. Anambra is a worthy partner, and we are ready to collaborate in every aspect of social protection. What drives us is results, and we are committed to building that bridge to the future very strongly," he added.

Soludo proudly noted that Anambra State had received a UNICEF award as the regional and national champion for commitment to healthcare, free antenatal care, and delivery services. He reiterated his administration's achievements in providing free antenatal care, delivery services including caesarean operations, and truly free education, which have made significant impact in the state.

In her remarks, UNICEF Country Representative Cristian Munduate commended Governor Soludo's political will to invest in health, emphasizing that health and nutrition should be viewed as investments rather than expenditures.

"We hope we are honoring the trust you have in us, and together we can build a brighter future for the children of Anambra," Munduate stated.

The meeting underscores the Anambra State government's dedication to child welfare and its recognition of international partnerships as crucial for achieving sustainable development goals in healthcare and education.