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The Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, has said that the state government offers female public servants six months maternity leave to enhance exclusive breastfeeding.
Balarabe made this known in a press briefing as part of activities marking the 2025 World Breastfeeding Week, which had development partners, civil society organisations, and UNICEF Kaduna Chief of Field Office in attendance.
Besides, the Deputy Governor also launched the First 1,000 Days of Life Initiative to promote child survival, nutrition, and optimal development, describing the period as “the most crucial for brain development, growth, and lifelong well-being.”
She said, , “The initiative will ensure every pregnant woman and child under two in Kaduna State receives adequate nutrition, healthcare, responsive caregiving, vaccinations, clean water, and birth registration.”
The Deputy Governor, who is also a medical doctor, stressed the importance of exclusive breastfeeding, which includes reduced healthcare costs, improved cognitive outcomes, and stronger immunity for infants.
She maintained that the theme of the 2025 World Breastfeeding Week, which is “Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create a Sustainable Support System,” aligns with Governor Uba Sani’s Human Capital Development goals.
Dr. Balarabe also called on political leaders, traditional and religious institutions, civil society groups, employers, and families to join in supporting breastfeeding mothers.
According to her, exclusive breastfeeding is not just a health issue but a “development priority, a gender issue, and a human rights imperative.”
Also speaking, the Commissioner of Health, Hajiya Umma Ahmed, announced the establishment of a crèche at the Ministry of Health to support breastfeeding mothers in the workplace.
Source: Guardian Nigeria | Continue to Full Story…
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