Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria -The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has appointed Zephia Ovia-Ikem, a Nigerian tech and social entrepreneur, as a UNICEF NextGen Champion, joining a global network of business and philanthropic leaders advancing children’s rights and opportunities.
Announcing the appointment on Wednesday in a statement, UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Wafaa Saeed praised Ovia-Ikem’s commitment to youth empowerment and innovation, noting her long-standing support for UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited Nigeria (GenU 9JA) initiative since its inception.
“We are proud to welcome Zephia Ovia-Ikem as UNICEF NextGen Champion,” Saeed said. “She will mobilise business leaders and utilise her networks to rally resources and create awareness for children and young people’s rights in Nigeria.”
In her acceptance remarks, Ovia-Ikem reaffirmed her commitment to driving progress for children and youth.
“Children and youths in Nigeria represent our greatest asset and brightest future,” she said. “I am passionate to work alongside UNICEF to ensure that every child can thrive and access sustainable economic opportunities.”
UNICEF’s NextGen initiative connects young leaders and innovators across 190 countries to promote education, health, climate resilience, and digital innovation for children, focusing on reaching the most vulnerable.
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