The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has announced the appointment of tech and social entrepreneur, Zephia Ovia-Ikem, as its NextGen Champion, recognizing her commitment to youth empowerment and child rights advocacy in Nigeria.

In a statement issued by the UNICEF Nigeria Country Representative, Ms. Wafaa Saeed, the organization described Ovia-Ikem’s appointment as part of its drive to engage emerging leaders in promoting the wellbeing of children and young people through innovation, partnerships, and philanthropy.

“I am proud to welcome Zephia Ovia-Ikem as UNICEF NextGen Champion, joining a global network of investors, philanthropists, and private sector leaders committed to advancing children’s rights and accelerating progress for children and young people in Nigeria,” Saeed said.

According to UNICEF, Ovia-Ikem has been a dedicated supporter of Generation Unlimited Nigeria (GenU 9JA)—a public-private-youth partnership platform—since its inception, contributing to initiatives that create opportunities for young Nigerians.

As a NextGen Champion, she will mobilise business leaders and utilise her networks to raise awareness and resources that will help accelerate UNICEF’s programmes across Nigeria, particularly in education, health, climate resilience, and digital innovation.

Expressing her commitment to the new role, Ovia-Ikem stated, “Children and youths in Nigeria represent our greatest asset and brightest future. I am passionate to work alongside UNICEF to mobilise resources, networks and commitment needed to ensure that every child and youth in Nigeria can thrive and have access to sustainable pathways for better economic opportunities.”

UNICEF’s NextGen initiative is a global community of emerging leaders who contribute their time, expertise, and resources to create lasting change for children. Members worldwide have supported emergency responses, invested in education and innovation, and amplified children’s voices on global platforms.

UNICEF continues to promote the rights and wellbeing of every child in over 190 countries and territories, focusing special attention on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to ensure a better future for all.