UNICEF Nigeria appoints Wafaa Abdelatef new Country Representative
By Folasade Akpan
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Nigeria has announced the appointment of Ms. Wafaa Abdelatef as its new Country Representative.
This is contained in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by UNICEF Communication Officer, Anike Alli-Hakeem.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Abdelatef brings over 20 years of dedicated service in international humanitarian and development work to her new role.
She is expected to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s efforts to improve the lives of children and communities across the country.
Before her appointment, Abdelatef served as UNICEF Representative in Somalia, where she achieved notable progress in promoting children’s rights and well-being in a complex humanitarian setting.
Her extensive career includes senior positions within the United Nations, notably with UNICEF, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), and the World Food Programme (WFP).
She has served in various countries, including Sudan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Syria, and Ethiopia, where she contributed to both humanitarian and development efforts.
She has also held leadership roles at the global level with OCHA in New York and Geneva.
Abdelatef began her professional journey in Sudan, working with the private sector, academia, and non-governmental organisations on initiatives related to displaced populations and environmental conservation.
She holds a Master of Architecture from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belgium, a Master of Science in Physical Planning from the University of Khartoum, and a Bachelor of Science in Architecture.
“In her previous role as UNICEF Representative in Somalia, Abdelatef demonstrated strong leadership in advancing the organisation’s mission amid complex humanitarian challenges,” the statement read.
“Her expertise spans programme management, coordination, and strategic planning in both humanitarian and development contexts.”
UNICEF expressed confidence that Abdelatef’s extensive experience and unwavering dedication would greatly support Nigeria’s progress in achieving the rights and well-being of every child. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Abiemwense Moru
Published By
Has also recently published
Economy/BusinessJuly 30, 2025ATTID urges global support for Africa’s infrastructure
General NewsJuly 30, 2025FOI violations: IPC seeks sanctions’ revisit for public officials
Economy/BusinessJuly 29, 2025Global growth projected at 3.0% in 2025- IMF
HealthJuly 29, 2025FG’s coordinated wholesale centres to curb fake, expired drugs in Nigeria
