EU, UNICEF, ILO Partner With Nigeria to Drive Social Protection, Growth, and Innovation

The European Union, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the International Labour Organisation (ILO) have kicked off a €13 million initiative in Abia State to strengthen Nigeria’s social protection system and expand safety nets for vulnerable households.

The programme, Supporting Sustainable Social Protection System in Nigeria (SUSI), will run until 2027 across four states, including Abia, with the goal of ensuring that no family or child falls through the cracks.

Speaking in Umuahia, UNICEF’s Chief of Field Services, Judith Leveillee, said the project would help families and children live with dignity and thrive. “Social protection is not just a safety net. It is a springboard that allows people to live with dignity,” she stressed.

EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, explained that the project complements EU goals in education, health, gender equality, and economic growth, while reducing inequality and building resilience for vulnerable groups.

ILO Country Director, Dr. Vanessa Phala Moyo, emphasised that social protection is about dignity and safety, not charity, and pledged the organisation’s commitment to helping Abia and Nigeria build stronger, inclusive systems that support those most in need.