The Bauchi State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), has officially launched the Climate Resilience Infrastructure for Basic Services (CRIBS) project. This initiative aims to prevent infrastructure destruction in schools and hospitals across the state, safeguarding essential services from the adverse effects of climate change.
UNICEF's Commitment to Child Safety
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony on Monday, UNICEF's Chief of Bauchi Field Office, Dr Nuzhat Rafique, emphasized the agency's dedication to children. She stated that the focus is on ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of children, providing them with the best potential to grow into contributing members of society. Dr Rafique highlighted that climate change is no longer a distant threat but a present reality, citing extreme temperatures and rainstorms that have damaged school roofs and primary healthcare facilities. She noted that thousands of people are already unable to access or remain in health facilities due to these climate impacts.
Project Scope and Support
The CRIBS project is supported by the United Kingdom International Development and will be implemented in Enugu, Bauchi, Kaduna, Jigawa, Katsina, and Gombe states. It involves building, rebuilding, and maintaining infrastructure to mitigate negative climate impacts on schools and hospitals. The project is scheduled to run from July 2025 to December 2026.
Dr Rafique described CRIBS as a dream for the state, envisioning all health facilities and schools equipped with water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities, structured to keep children safe. She added that mothers would be able to give birth in safe environments, and newborns would be protected from climate-related risks.
Government's Role and Local Impact
The State Governor, Bala Mohammed, represented by his deputy, Auwal Jatau, announced that the project targets the upgrade of 15 primary healthcare centers and nine primary schools across five local government areas. He stated that the renovation and upgrade of these facilities would create a conducive atmosphere for learning and quality healthcare delivery, while also mitigating the negative impacts of climate change.
Governor Mohammed commended UNICEF for its continued support of government policies in healthcare services, primary education, adolescent and reproductive health, as well as water and sanitation. The collaboration underscores a shared commitment to building resilient infrastructure that protects vulnerable populations, especially children, from the growing threats posed by climate change.
