The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has entered into a strategic partnership with CWAY Group to implement a large-scale programme aimed at improving adolescent health outcomes and promoting inclusive education across Nigeria.
The initiative, titled “Strengthening Adolescent Health and Inclusive Learning,” will be rolled out in Enugu State, the Federal Capital Territory, Lagos State, and Ogun State, targeting more than one million learners.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Abuja, UNESCO Head of Office and Country Representative, Jean-Paul Ngome Abiaga, described the agreement as a transformative step toward advancing adolescent development.
“This is not just a formal agreement; it is a commitment to expanding opportunity, safeguarding dignity, and securing a better future for adolescents,” he said.
Abiaga outlined three core pillars of the partnership: deepened inclusion, integration of health and education, and sustained multi-stakeholder collaboration. He stressed that equitable access must remain central to the programme, noting that every adolescent—regardless of gender, ability, or background—deserves access to quality education and essential health knowledge.
He further highlighted the interdependence of health and learning, explaining that the initiative would deploy evidence-based interventions to address both sectors simultaneously, enabling young people to make informed life decisions.
Commending private sector involvement, Abiaga praised CWAY Group for demonstrating leadership through corporate social responsibility, describing the collaboration as a model for impactful investment in national development.
Representing the company, Deputy Director Moses Wang said the initiative reflects CWAY’s longstanding commitment to community development.
“We began with the community, and this initiative brings us back to our roots on a much larger scale. It is an opportunity to drive meaningful change across the country,” he said.
Wang added that after over two decades in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, the company is strengthening its focus on education and health as key drivers of sustainable growth.
Also speaking, Secretary-General of the Nigerian National Commission for UNESCO, Olagunju Lateef, described the initiative as a demonstration of shared responsibility in investing in Nigeria’s youth. Represented by Eunice Ayara, she expressed optimism that the programme would particularly benefit marginalised groups.
The initiative is expected to strengthen inclusive education systems, expand access to reliable health information, and foster collaboration among government agencies, educators, and local communities. At least 1,000 learners with disabilities are among those expected to benefit directly.
Stakeholders were urged to ensure transparency, accountability, and sustained commitment to deliver measurable and lasting impact.
The UNESCO–CWAY partnership marks a renewed push to prioritise adolescent well-being in Nigeria’s development agenda, bridging gaps in education and health while promoting a more inclusive future.
