Korede Abdullah 
LAGOS, Nigeria – The First Lady of Ekiti State, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, and the Chairperson of the Anambra State chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Mrs. Edith Onwuka have called for stronger family and community support for exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of a child’s life.
The appeal was made as Nigeria joined the global observance of World Breastfeeding Week, with health advocates highlighting breastfeeding as a critical intervention for child survival, immunity and healthy development.
Oyebanji, in a message marking the week, described breastfeeding as more than a source of nourishment, saying it protects infants from infections, supports brain development and can reduce the risk of some chronic illnesses later in life.
“Your encouragement, patience, and presence can make the difference in ensuring that infants receive exclusive breastfeeding in their first six months, giving them the healthiest possible start in life,” she said.
In Anambra, Onwuka made a similar appeal during activities marking the conclusion of the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week.
She encouraged mothers to initiate breastfeeding immediately after childbirth and ensure that children receive routine immunisation against preventable childhood diseases.
Onwuka said breast milk provides antibodies and natural protection that help strengthen babies’ immune systems, reduce childhood illnesses and malnutrition, and support healthy brain development.
She particularly urged health workers in labour wards to ensure that breastfeeding is initiated as soon as possible after delivery.
“The role of health workers working in the labour ward is to ensure that they initiate breastfeeding within the first thirty minutes of life,” Onwuka said.
She added that breastfeeding also benefits mothers, including by helping reduce bleeding after childbirth, lowering the risks of breast and ovarian cancers and delaying the return of fertility.
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Abah Felicity 
