Breastfeeding Week: Government Calls for More Support

The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has urged Nigerians to support breastfeeding. They want to create better environments for mothers at home, in communities, healthcare facilities, and workplaces.

The ministry made this call in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja. Ado Bako, the Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations, shared the message ahead of the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week.

This global event happens every year from August 1 to 7. This year, it will focus on the theme, "Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works."

Mr Bako explained that the theme highlights the need to build on proven methods that improve breastfeeding practices. These methods help with better nutrition, food security, and reducing poverty.

He said breastfeeding lays the foundation for lifelong health. It offers the best nutrition for infants, boosts immunity, and supports healthy brain growth.

"Breastfeeding supports healthy brain development, improves child survival, and contributes significantly to human capital development and national productivity," he stated.

Mr Bako also mentioned that promoting breastfeeding lowers healthcare costs, supports food security, and promotes social equity.

The ministry believes every mother deserves the support to breastfeed successfully.

"Families, healthcare providers, employers, communities, and policymakers all have important roles in ensuring that breastfeeding mothers get proper care, encouragement, and workplace support," he added.

Mr Bako reiterated the ministry’s recommendations on good infant feeding practices. This includes starting breastfeeding within one hour of birth and exclusively breastfeeding for the first six months.

He also stressed introducing suitable complementary foods from six months while continuing breastfeeding up to two years or more.

He pointed out that breastmilk is the best food for infants. It is safe, easy to access, affordable, and hygienic. It also provides the first line of defense against many common childhood illnesses.

He noted that increased breastfeeding helps families avoid the high costs of infant formula and preventable diseases.

Mr Bako said activities for the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week will take place across the country. This includes a national event on August 3.

Other activities include a media conference led by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare and community outreach programs.

He urged Nigerians to support mothers in breastfeeding according to national guidelines.

"Working together to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding is an investment in healthier children, stronger families, and a better Nigeria," Mr Bako concluded.