Borno First Lady seeks 6 months maternity leave for breastfeeding mothers
In a significant move to promote maternal and child health, Dr. Falmata Zulum, the First Lady of Borno State, has urged the government to implement a six-month maternity leave for nursing mothers to encourage exclusive breastfeeding.
Speaking at the launch of the 2024 World Breastfeeding Week in Maiduguri, Dr. Zulum emphasized the critical need for collective action and collaboration to create supportive environments for breastfeeding. She was represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo.
“We must establish a comprehensive support framework that includes breastfeeding-friendly healthcare facilities, supportive communities, and accommodating workplaces,” Dr. Zulum stated. “I fully endorse a six-month maternity leave for working mothers to practice exclusive breastfeeding. This year’s theme, ‘Closing the Gap, Breastfeeding Support for All,’ underscores the necessity of inclusivity and universality in fostering a breastfeeding-conducive environment.”
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Dr. Zulum also called for increased investment in breastfeeding initiatives. “In line with the WHO-UNICEF-led Global Breastfeeding Collective’s policy recommendations, we appeal for enhanced investments in comprehensive breastfeeding programs, better breastfeeding counseling, and support for women in healthcare and community settings,” she added.
Highlighting the urgency of the issue, Dr. Tushar Rane, Chief of the UNICEF Borno Field Office, expressed concerns about Borno’s progress in achieving global breastfeeding targets. “The declining position of Borno in meeting global breastfeeding goals is alarming. Immediate and concerted efforts are needed to reverse this trend,” Dr. Rane warned.
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