UNICEF and National Orientation Agency Join Forces to Launch SARAH Project in Yola

Yola, Nigeria – March 14, 2025

In a significant step toward improving reproductive and adolescent health in Nigeria, UNICEF has sought collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA) for its newly launched project, SARAH (Strengthening Access to Reproductive and Adolescent Health). The initiative aims to enhance maternal and child health benefits, with a focus on improving child survival rates, maternal health outcomes, and strengthening social protection systems across the country.

Dr. Noma Owens, leading the UNICEF delegation during a courtesy call to the NOA office in Yola, emphasized theq critical role of the Agency in achieving the project's objectives. "The National Orientation Agency has been instrumental in driving community engagement and awareness campaigns, making them a key partner in this endeavor," Dr. Owens stated. She highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts involving governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), private sector entities, and community-based initiatives to ensure the success of SARAH.

The Acting State Director of NOA, Mr. Richard Bala Dangari, represented by Mr. Bethuel Mamman, Deputy Director of Special Duties and Local Government Affairs, welcomed the UNICEF delegation and reaffirmed the Agency's commitment to the partnership. "We are fully dedicated to working with UNICEF to ensure the success of the SARAH project. This collaboration aligns with our mandate to promote positive behavioral change and mobilize communities for national development," Mr. Mamman said.

The SARAH project is expected to address critical gaps in reproductive and adolescent health services, particularly in underserved communities. By leveraging NOA's extensive network and UNICEF's technical expertise, the initiative aims to create sustainable impact through awareness campaigns, capacity building, and the implementation of evidence-based interventions.

This partnership marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to improve health outcomes for women, adolescents, and children in Nigeria. Both organizations expressed optimism that the SARAH project will contribute significantly to achieving national and global health targets, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Aaron Isaac, Hicia News