The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has named Zephia Ovia-Ikem, a prominent tech innovator and social entrepreneur, as a UNICEF NextGen Champion, in recognition of her ongoing commitment to youth empowerment and children’s rights in Nigeria.
Announcing the appointment, Wafaa Saeed, UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, said Ovia-Ikem’s inclusion will strengthen UNICEF’s mission to foster private sector partnerships and innovation-driven initiatives for children and young people across the country.
The UNICEF NextGen programme connects emerging global leaders dedicated to accelerating solutions for children through advocacy, investment, and social impact.
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Members have been instrumental in advancing digital inclusion, supporting emergency responses, and amplifying the voices of children worldwide.
Ovia-Ikem joins a global network of entrepreneurs, investors, and philanthropists who use their platforms to champion UNICEF’s goals.
She has been a consistent supporter of Generation Unlimited Nigeria (GenU 9JA) since its inception, contributing to programmes designed to link young Nigerians to education, skills training, and employment opportunities.
As a NextGen Champion, Ovia-Ikem will lead efforts to engage business leaders, mobilise funding, and expand UNICEF’s outreach in areas including health, education, climate resilience, and digital innovation.
“Children and youths in Nigeria represent our greatest asset and brightest future,” Ovia-Ikem said.
“I’m honoured to work with UNICEF to mobilise the resources, networks, and commitment needed to ensure every young Nigerian can thrive and access sustainable opportunities.”
UNICEF noted that her appointment comes at a crucial time when public-private collaboration is essential to addressing Nigeria’s challenges in education, healthcare, and technology access.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights of every child — especially the most vulnerable — through initiatives spanning education, nutrition, health, water, sanitation, and climate protection.
As the world’s largest vaccine provider, UNICEF also operates the largest humanitarian warehouse globally, serving over 190 countries and territories.
