Stakeholders have expressed concerns over the low rate of exclusive breastfeeding among nursing mothers in Ogun State, highlighting it as a fundamental right of every child.
They emphasized the importance of committing to six months of exclusive breastfeeding before introducing supplementary feeding to aid in the healthy development of the infant’s immune system.
These sentiments were shared during the kickoff event for the 2024 World Breastfeeding Week in Abeokuta, under the theme “Closing the gap: Breastfeeding support for all.”
Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, the governor’s wife, who spoke at the event, underscored the initiative’s goal of increasing awareness about exclusive breastfeeding and addressing detrimental nutritional practices.
The current exclusive breastfeeding rate in the state stands at a mere 33.2%, falling significantly short of the World Health Assembly’s 2030 target of 70%.
Mrs. Abiodun attributed this low percentage to the prevailing social and economic challenges that have constrained many mothers’ ability to prioritize breastfeeding due to limited time availability.
Dr. Tomi Coker, the Commissioner for Health, highlighted the significance of the World Breastfeeding Week in reminding mothers, stakeholders, and the government about the advocacy for exclusive breastfeeding.
Dr. Coker, represented by Dr. Elijah Ogunsola from the state Primary Healthcare Board, emphasized the government’s commitment to prioritizing the health and well-being of both mothers and children.
“My advice is for all stakeholders to use this week to reflect and see that we have an advantage created by God and it is not affected by the dollar or the economy so we should not starve our children,” she narrated.
Mrs. Victoria Adebiyi, National Primary Health Care Development Agency Coordinator, commended Ogun for participating in the global celebration, emphasizing that every child deserves proper nutrition, and stressing that mothers should receive mental and emotional education and preparation from the start of pregnancy.
