The Zamfara State government has approved six months of maternity leave for female civil servants. This move aims to promote exclusive breastfeeding and improve the health of mothers and children.
Yakubu Haidara, the State Head of Service, announced this decision on Thursday in Gusau. He made this announcement while receiving a team from Civil Society, Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN).
The delegation visited to push for six months of maternity leave, more funding for nutrition programs, and better tracking of budgets to ensure funds are released on time.
Haidara said this approval shows Governor Dauda Lawal’s commitment to better nutrition and exclusive breastfeeding for infants in the state.
"I believe the governor’s approval is aimed at addressing malnutrition among children in the state," he stated.
He mentioned that maternity leave is important for protecting mothers and babies during the critical time after birth. It also helps families grow healthier.
"It provides important time for physical recovery, prevents postpartum depression, facilitates exclusive breastfeeding and promotes vital emotional bonding," he added.
Haidara welcomed the advocacy team and noted that both government and civil society aim to protect children and ensure a healthy future.
"I welcome you for this advocacy visit. I believe we are all working towards protecting our children and ensuring good health for future generations," he said.
He remembered that last year, the governor approved N500 million for nutrition activities to support interventions in Zamfara.
Haidara expressed confidence that the governor would keep or even increase funding this year because of his commitment to better nutrition programs across the state.
"I believe this year also the governor will do the same or even more for nutrition activities in the state," he said.
He assured the team that the state government would keep working with development partners and civil society groups to fight child malnutrition.
"I want to assure you of the state’s commitment to continue partnering with you in addressing malnutrition among children," Haidara added.
Earlier, Kabiru Jangeru, the CS-SUNN State Coordinator, called the governor’s decision a big step for maternal health and child nutrition.
Jangeru said malnutrition is a serious threat to child survival and needs ongoing investment, policy support, and stronger teamwork among everyone involved.
"We are working with UNICEF support to advocate enhanced nutrition funding and exclusive breastfeeding among children," he stated.
He pointed out that six months of maternity leave will help mothers exclusively breastfeed their babies, which will greatly lower malnutrition and improve children’s health.
"We appreciate the governor for the kind gesture and quick response to our advocacy," he said.
He also thanked the Head of Service for helping to make the extended maternity leave policy a reality.
"We also appreciate the Head of Service for the timely facilitation that led to the governor’s approval," he concluded.
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