The Canadian government has contributed $3m to the United Nations COVID-19 Basket Fund for Nigeria.
This was disclosed by the acting Canada’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ryan Ward.
According to Ward in a statement on Thursday, the investment will help Nigeria to continue its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
He explained that the funds would facilitate further mobilisation of resources and programming in support of the National COVID-19 Multi-Sectoral Pandemic Response Plan developed by the Presidential Task Force.
“This includes support for the procurement of critical medical supplies, strengthening the capacity of the health system to respond, and addressing the social impact on the most vulnerable,” Ward said.
The COVID-19 Basket Fund is being implemented by the UN in Nigeria through a Project Management Board, which comprises representatives of the PTF, relevant government agencies, contributing donors and the UN.
“The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on the health and well-being of Nigerians, with women and girls being disproportionately affected.
“Canada’s contribution to the COVID-19 Basket Fund reinforces the importance of working together, under the leadership of the Government of Nigeria, to further prevent its spread and address the needs of those most affected,” Ward added.
