UNICEF provides vital supplies for Nigeria’s COVID-19 response

ABUJA, 16 April 2020 – UNICEF today received a delivery of vital health supplies to support the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria on a flight funded by the Maersk Division APM Terminals.

The supplies include 10,000 test kits, 15 oxygen concentrators, personal protective equipment (PPE), vaccines, emergency health kits and other vital health supplies, which will support the Nigerian Government’s COVID-19 Response Plan and UNICEF work in support of children and families in Nigeria.

The supplies will also support the Government of Nigeria to prevent and respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in affected states across the country. The supplies are co-financed by the European Union (EU) and the telecommunications operator IHS Nigeria

The personal protection equipment (PPEs) will protect medical personnel and ancillary staff who are the first responders on the frontline, providing care and treatment to people affected by the virus. The test kits will enable healthcare workers to test those who suspect they may have the virus to verify their health status, so they can get treatment and protect their families and communities.

“Only through strong collaboration with governments, businesses and partners can we ensure life-saving supplies continue to reach children most in need,” said Etleva Kadilli, Director of UNICEF’s Supply Division. “We are grateful for the support of Maersk that made this shipment possible in a time of unprecedented logistical challenges.”

“We know that early intervention is key to avoid the spread of the virus,” said Peter Hawkins, UNICEF Representative in Nigeria. “UNICEF is grateful for the support of business and partners to be able to reach children and families in Nigeria and support the Government’s ongoing strong efforts to protect the country from an escalating pandemic.”

Since the outbreak of the coronavirus in Nigeria in late February, UNICEF has been supporting the Government of Nigeria to respond to the pandemic through risk communications and community engagement, infection prevention and control, epidemiology/surveillance and management of coronavirus cases. UNICEF is developing and disseminating messages, infographics, and audio-visual material informing the public about the risks of COVID-19 across the country, and how to protect oneself.

The shipment is part of UNICEF’s global response to the pandemic. UNICEF is working with governments, partners and communities around the world to support the fight against COVID-19. Since the beginning of the outbreak, UNICEF has shipped more than 6.3 million gloves, 1 million surgical masks, 267,831 N95 respirators, 230,395 gowns, 13,128 goggles and 19,178 face shields to countries across the world.