The UK government has committed £19 million to strengthen health and education services in Nigeria against the growing threats of climate change. The funding will support 84 facilities — 39 primary healthcare centres and 45 schools — under the Climate Resilient Infrastructure for Basic Services (CRIBS) initiative, focusing on Kano and Jigawa states.
Nigeria ranks second globally for climate-related risks to children, with millions impacted annually by floods, droughts, and extreme heat. CRIBS, described as a pioneering approach, is designed to protect frontline services from these shocks through targeted adaptation measures.
The inauguration of the upgraded facilities was marked with ribbon-cuttings, site visits, and media engagements, highlighting how climate-resilient infrastructure can save lives and secure education in vulnerable communities.
“This £19 million investment reflects the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s climate response,” said Cynthia Rowe, Development Director Nigeria at the British High Commission. “CRIBS demonstrates how resilient infrastructure can protect services and inspire broader replication across the country.”
The programme is a partnership involving the Nigerian government, UNICEF, the World Bank, the World Health Organization, and other development organisations.
UNICEF’s Representative in Nigeria, Wafaa Saeed, said the initiative showed the power of collaboration. “By investing in climate-smart infrastructure, we are protecting essential services and empowering communities to safeguard their children’s future,” she noted.
The CRIBS model is now being positioned as a blueprint for federal and state adoption, offering scalable, community-owned solutions to tackle climate vulnerability where it hits hardest.
