The First lady of Borno State, Dr Falmata Zulum, has called for implementation of six months maternity leave for nursing mothers in the State. Zulum stated that leave would encourage women to imbibe exclusive breastfeeding for their babies.
Mrs. Zulum made the call yesterday in Maiduguri while flagging-off the 2024 World Breastfeeding Week in the State.
The first lady was represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo.
Speaking, she called women to imbibe exclusive breastfeeding. Zulum stated that the WBW constituted a clarion call for women to collective action. She, therefore, called for collaborative efforts to precipitate transformative change.
Zulum, therefore, advocated for the establishment of a comprehensive support framework comprising for the women. These include breastfeeding-friendly healthcare facilities, supportive communities, and accommodating workplaces.
She said, “I fully support working mothers having six months maternity leave to practice exclusive breastfeeding. The theme ‘Closing the Gap, Breastfeeding Support for All’ highlights the imperative of inclusivity and universality in our pursuit of a breastfeeding -conducive environment, accessible to all individuals.
“In alignment with the policy recommendation by the WHO-UNICEF-led Global Breastfeeding Collective, we issue a formal appeal for enhanced investments in comprehensive breastfeeding initiatives. Improved breastfeeding counseling and support for women within healthcare facilities and community contexts.”
In his remark the Chief of UNICEF Borno Field Office, Dr Tushar Rane, expressed concern over the dwindling breastfeeding. He said this development had brought about the dwindling position of Borno in achieving the global target.
source: Leadership
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