UNICEF, Stakeholders Raise Alarm Over Diversion of Relief Materials in Dala LGA

By Ladan Nasidi

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has expressed concern over the alleged diversion and sale of relief materials meant for vulnerable children in Dala Local Government Area of Kano State.

The concern was raised during a stakeholders’ interaction held at the council secretariat, where community leaders, government officials, and development partners discussed reports of medicines, school bags, and nutritional supplements donated to support malnourished children being sold in markets and other public places.

Speaking at the meeting, a senior UNICEF official, Mr. Adeyinka Adeosun, lamented that items intended to support vulnerable members of the community were being diverted for selfish purposes.

“It is unfortunate that materials meant for the wellbeing of children and other vulnerable groups are being sold in markets. This act is unacceptable, unpatriotic and must stop,” Adeosun said.

He noted that some cases involved parents and individuals responsible for distributing the items, stressing that UNICEF would not tolerate dishonesty in the handling of humanitarian support.

“We call on all stakeholders to strengthen monitoring and raise awareness among community members about the importance of these relief materials. Anyone found wanting will face appropriate sanctions,” he warned.

Also speaking, the Director of Special Assignments in the council, Hajiya Halima Ahmad Ishaq, said the meeting was convened to sensitize the public and address the growing concern over the misuse of items clearly labeled “Not For Sale.”

She expressed regret that Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF), a peanut-based supplement given to malnourished children after medical screening, was among the diverted items.

Participants at the meeting recommended stronger community monitoring and greater involvement of traditional leaders to ensure the materials reach their intended beneficiaries.