UNICEF Nigeria has officially announced the appointment of Ms Wafaa Abdelatef, as its new Country Representative, bringing on board a seasoned humanitarian with over two decades of experience in international development and emergency response.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the organisation expressed confidence in Ms Abdelatef’s ability to drive UNICEF’s mission in Nigeria forward, particularly in improving the lives and rights of children across the country.
“Wafaa Saeed Abdelatef brings an exceptional depth of knowledge and leadership in both humanitarian and development contexts,” said Susan Akila, Communication Specialist at UNICEF Nigeria.
Continuing the statement added, “Her appointment marks a new chapter in our work to ensure every Nigerian child survives, thrives, and fulfills their potential.”
Prior to her posting in Nigeria, Wafaa served as UNICEF’s Representative in Somalia, where she led efforts to address child protection, nutrition, education, and access to healthcare in one of the most complex operating environments in the world.
She has also held key leadership roles within the United Nations system, including positions with OCHA, UNICEF, and WFP across regions such as Sudan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Syria, and Ethiopia. Her international career includes strategic postings at the global level with OCHA in New York and Geneva.
Wafaa’s professional journey began in her native Sudan, where she worked across academia, the private sector, and non-governmental organisations on initiatives related to displacement and environmental sustainability. She holds a Master of Architecture from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (Belgium), a Master of Science in Physical Planning from the University of Khartoum, and a Bachelor of Science in Architecture.
UNICEF Nigeria says it expects Ms. Abdelatef’s appointment to bring renewed momentum to its country programme, especially in addressing the growing challenges facing children amid rising poverty, insecurity, and climate-related emergencies.
Wafaa’s appointment comes at a crucial time as UNICEF continues to support Nigerian children and their communities through health, education, nutrition, protection, and water and sanitation programmes.
