UNICEF: Independent Evaluation of the United Nations–Government Joint Programme in Nigeria 2020–2022

October 2023

In line with our commitment to a gender-responsive evaluation, we were commissioned by UNICEF to conduct an external end-line evaluation of the Joint Programme at the federal level and in Sokoto State. Our evaluation also aimed to identify good practices and lessons learned for future implementations.

The JP aimed to support a social contract between the government and the people through sustainable, equitable, and quality social protection benefits and services. Working closely with our UN partners and government stakeholders, we found a high level of satisfaction, with more than 80% of expectations achieved, and identified areas where improvements are needed.

The conclusions of the JP are based on the two-year experimental nature of the pilot, which may not be sufficient for objectives requiring long-term systemic transformation. Nonetheless, it provides invaluable guidance, innovative resource ideas, and capacity requirements to policymakers, program managers, and stakeholders, for achieving universal social protection.

We recommend enhancing the social protection mechanism for greater equity, incorporating gender analysis at the core of the program strategy, and implementing child-sensitive interventions to protect the rights of vulnerable populations.

Download Full Evaluation Here