The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has appointed Zephia Ovia-Ikem, a renowned tech and social entrepreneur, as UNICEF NextGen Champion, marking a significant step in advancing children’s rights and youth empowerment efforts in Nigeria.
With the appointment, she has joined a global network of business executives, philanthropists, and investors dedicated to promoting children’s rights and accelerating development for Nigerian children and youth.
In a statement, UNICEF Country Representative in Nigeria, Wafaa Saeed, said Ovia-Ikem would join a global network of innovators, philanthropists, and business leaders advancing the welfare of children and young people.
The UNICEF NextGen initiative brings together emerging global leaders who use their expertise and influence to accelerate solutions for children. Members have supported emergency responses, championed digital inclusion, and amplified the voices of children on international platforms.
‘I am proud to welcome Zephia Ovia-Ikem as a UNICEF NextGen Champion, joining a global network committed to accelerating progress for children and young people in Nigeria,’ Saeed stated.
She noted that Ovia-Ikem, a tech and social entrepreneur, has supported UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited Nigeria (GenU 9JA) initiative since its inception.
As a NextGen Champion, she will mobilise business leaders, leverage her network to raise awareness, and generate resources to enhance UNICEF’s programmes across the country.
In her response, Zephia Ovia-Ikem described children and youth as Nigeria’s greatest assets, stressing the need to invest in their growth and empowerment.
She said, ‘I am passionate about working with UNICEF to mobilise resources and commitments to ensure every child and youth in Nigeria can thrive and access sustainable opportunities.’
UNICEF NextGen is a global community of emerging leaders dedicated to supporting initiatives in education, health, climate resilience, and digital innovation.
The network has mobilised resources for emergency responses and long-term investments that amplify children’s voices globally.