UNICEF, Katsina Gov’s wife partner to improve exclusive breastfeeding

The Katsina State Governor’s wife, Hajiya Zulaihat Radda, says she is partnering the United Nations Children Funds (UNICEF) to improve exclusive breastfeeding across the state.

Mrs Radda, who disclosed this in her speech during the flag-off of the week in Katsina on Wednesday, said this year’s theme coincided with her commitment in ensuring that every mother and her child, regardless of their background, have access to their needs.

It was reported that Aug. 1-7 of every year, has been set aside to celebrate the World Breastfeeding Week across the globe.

This year’s theme is: “Closing the Gap, Break the Record, Break Barriers: Breastfeeding Support for All.”

The governor’s wife, who was represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hajiya Hadiza Yar’adua, described breastfeeding as a natural and powerful way to nurture children.

She said in spite of its proven benefits, many mothers face significant barriers that prevent them from breastfeeding successfully, pledging to work tirelessly to bridge the gap that hinder breastfeeding support.

Mr Oluniyi Oyedokun, a Nutrition Specialist with the UNICEF, Kano Field Office, said the theme underscored their commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian mother has access to the support she needed, regardless of her circumstances.

While stressing the Importance of breastfeeding, Oyedokun said that in Nigeria, breastfeeding was crucial to the survival, health, and well-being of infants and young children.

He added that: “It provides essential nutrients and protection against illnesses, which are vital for child development. Breastfeeding acts as an equalizer in our society, offering every Nigerian child the best start in life, regardless of socio-economic status.

“Our focus this year is on reducing the inequalities that hinder access to breastfeeding support. Vulnerable mothers, particularly in rural areas and during times of emergencies, require additional assistance to ensure that their children benefit from breastfeeding.”

The nutrition specialist noted that by improving breastfeeding support in Nigeria, they would address the social inequalities that stand in the way of sustainable development and public health.

According to him, “In Nigeria, the need for breastfeeding support becomes even more critical during crises, such as conflicts and insurgencies.

“Unregulated donation of breast milk substitutes and lack of clean water can put infants at higher risk of malnutrition and mortality.

“We must ensure that breastfeeding support is integrated into Nigeria’s emergency response plans to protect the youngest and most vulnerable members of our society.

“UNICEF Nigeria is dedicated to supporting the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, and all our partners in this groundbreaking initiative.”

It was reported that the event was organised through the governor’s wife’s pet project, ‘Safe Space Humanitarian Initiative’ (SASHIN), with support from UNICEF.

The programme also witnessed mass breastfeeding by 500 lactating mothers aimed at increasing exclusive breastfeeding rate in the state.