UNICEF Commends Nigeria for increasing rates of exclusive breastfeeding of children under Six Months

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From Usman Shehu, Bauçhi

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has disclosed that 34% of Nigerian infants correctly benefited from exclusive breastfeeding, the efforts which greatly  saves hundreds of thousands of lives.

UNICEF made the expression in a press statement mada available to journalists on Thursday as part of activities marking World Breastfeeding Week, where the Organization appreciates the ‘significant progress in increasing exclusive breastfeeding rates among infants under six months’ in Nigeria.

The statement said the number of Nigerians  under-six-months who are exclusively breastfed has increased by 10% over the past 12 years.

According to the release, “This World Breastfeeding Week, under the theme “Closing the gap: Breastfeeding support for all,” UNICEF and WHO are emphasizing the need to improve breastfeeding support as a critical action for reducing health inequity and protecting the rights of mothers and babies to survive and thrive.”

It disclosed that despite this progress, challenges hinder achieving the World Health Organization’s target of 50% exclusive breastfeeding by 2025.

“Breastfeeding is the foundation of lifelong health and well-being,” said Cristian Munduate, UNICEF Nigeria’s Country Representative.

“However, many mothers in Nigeria face cultural, social, and practical barriers that prevent exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months.”

The UNICEF Nigerian Country Representative emphasized that Breastfeeding is crucial during early development, providing antibodies that protect babies from illnesses and death, especially in emergencies where it guarantees a safe, nutritious food source.

Adding that the practice again reduces childhood illnesses and the risk of certain cancers and non-communicable diseases for mothers.

In Nigeria, the gaps for access to exclusive breastfeeding include insufficient maternity leave policies, lack of workplace support, and inadequate access to breastfeeding education and services, particularly in rural areas. The statement explained. Confirming that only Seven States in Nigeria offers the recommended 24 Weeks of paid Maternity leave and Many Women returned to work without necessary back up to continue breastfeeding.

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