The Kogi Government has urged all stakeholders, including governments, donors, civil society, and partners, to strengthen efforts to promote, protect, and support breastfeeding in the state.
The state’s Commissioner for Health, Dr Adeiza Abdulazeez, made the call on Friday in Lokoja, at the flag off ceremony to commemorate World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) 2025
Dr Abdulazeez, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr Stephen Momoh, recommended early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding for six months, and continued breastfeeding up to two years or beyond.
“Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits for both children and mothers.
“For children, it promotes healthy brain development, prevents malnutrition and diseases, and reduces the risk of obesity and chronic diseases.
“For mothers, breastfeeding protects against chronic diseases like ovarian cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
“However, according to the 2021 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, Kogi State has low breastfeeding rates, with only 29.5 per cent of children exclusively breastfed.
“This highlights the need for increased awareness and support for breastfeeding.
“This year’s theme, “Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems,” provides an opportunity for all stakeholders to unite and promote breastfeeding awareness and support for mothers,” he said.
He, therefore urged all stakeholders, including governments, donors, civil society and partners, to strengthen efforts to promote, protect, and support breastfeeding.
The commissioner commended Gov. Ahmed Ododo for prioritising the health of its citizens, especially women and children.
He added: “His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo’s efforts in the health sector have been monumental and unparalleled.
“The First Lady and Nutrition Ambassador, Mrs. Sefinat Ahmed Ododo, has also contributed significantly to nutritional improvement in the state”.
Earlier, Executive Director, Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KSPHDA), Dr Musa Mu’azu, reiterated the agency’s commitment to promoting breastfeeding awareness and support in the state.
Dr Mu’azu emphasised the profound impact of breastfeeding on the lives of mothers and children, citing its role in providing optimal nutrition, protecting against childhood illnesses, and promoting healthy growth and development.
The executive director noted that breast milk is particularly crucial in Nigeria, where access to healthcare and resources may be limited.
He outlined KSPHDA’s efforts to address breastfeeding challenges, including training healthcare workers, public awareness campaigns, and data collection to identify areas where support is most needed.
Dr Mu’azu encouraged families, communities, and workplaces to support breastfeeding mothers and create a nurturing environment where breastfeeding can thrive.
He urged everyone to join KSPHDA’s efforts to promote breastfeeding and ensure that breastfeeding support is accessible to all.
Donor partners, including WHO and National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), urged mothers to prioritise exclusive breastfeeding, and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the government’s efforts to improve health outcomes in the state.
Mrs Mary Peter, a nursing mother, said exclusive breastfeeding has been keeping her children healthy and hospital-free.
She advises other mothers to adopt the practice for their babies’ well-being.