Jigawa state First Lady, Hajiya Hadiza Umar Namadi, has expressed concern over the inadequate knowledge on exclusive breastfeeding by women generally in the state.
The wife of the state governor observed that early return to work after childbirth and lack of conducive breastfeeding environment for the working mothers constitute a major problem for new born babies.
Hajiya Namadi stated this on Wednesday at the launch of the 2023 World Breastfeeding Week held in Dutse.
Also speaking, Nutrition Manager United Nations Children Education Fund (UNICEF) Field Office Kano, Alhadji Diop said breastfeeding is crucial not only for the children but also to the lactating mothers.
He said in line with the theme of the 2023 breastfeeding week; Enabling Breastfeeding-Making a Difference for Working Parents, policymakers need to respect the directive.
“Breastfeeding is not only a natural and beautiful act but also crucial for the health and well-being of children and mothers.
“It is essential to reflect on the progress we have made so far and the strides that still lie ahead in supporting our working parents,” he added.
He stressed the need for working parents to have provision for lactation rooms/creches in all ministries, departments and agencies.
The Director of Primary Healthcare Agency, Dr Ibrahim Kabiru, said the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding include healthy children.
He said the child will grow with no or little diarrhea or vomiting as well as other illnesses. They will not have obesity, coughing or diabetes when he or she grows up.
“In Jigawa state only 20% of women practice exclusive breastfeeding and about 80% of them do not breastfeed for more than four months without mixing with water,” Kabiru said.
