Because the world marks ‘World Breastfeeding Week’ 2024, the United Nations Youngsters’s Fund (UNICEF) has hailed the ‘important progress in growing unique breastfeeding charges amongst infants beneath six months’ in Nigeria.
In accordance with a press launch issued to our correspondent by the UNICEF and WHO, the nation has seen a ten% improve in unique breastfeeding over the previous 12 years, with 34% of infants now benefiting from this important observe.
The United Nations companies stated whereas this achievement brings Nigeria nearer to the WHO goal of fifty% unique breastfeeding by 2025, challenges nonetheless persist.
Cultural, social, and sensible obstacles have been enumerated as elements hindering many moms from breastfeeding solely for the primary six months, regardless of its confirmed advantages for lifelong well being and well-being.
UNICEF Nigeria’s Nation Consultant, Cristian Munduate, emphasised the significance of breastfeeding assist, citing gaps in maternity go away insurance policies, office assist, and entry to schooling and companies, notably in rural areas.
He famous that solely seven states in Nigeria provide the beneficial 24 weeks of paid maternity go away to nursing moms.
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