The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has emphasized the need for the Nigerian government to prioritize access to medical oxygen as a crucial intervention for enhancing child survival. This call was made during the 4th National Oxygen Coordination Meeting held in Abuja, where UNICEF's Health Specialist, Dr. Fatima Cheshi, highlighted the serious health risks associated with untreated low levels of oxygen in children's blood. She pointed out that timely oxygen therapy is critical for addressing various severe childhood health conditions.

Dr. Cheshi further noted that child survival remains a central tenet of UNICEF's mission, and the organization is committed to supporting tailored interventions that improve health outcomes for children in Nigeria. The statement released by the United for Oxygen Coalition in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Health reinforces the urgency of this issue, especially in light of the life-threatening complications that can arise from inadequate oxygen supply.

This advocacy for prioritizing oxygen access underscores a broader understanding of healthcare that includes paediatric care, recognizing that investing in children's health today is essential for nurturing healthy adults in the future. UNICEF's ongoing commitment to address these needs reflects its drive to ensure that every child's right to health is honored, ultimately aiming to decrease preventable child mortality across Nigeria.