World Breastfeeding Week: Niger Govt Calls For Exclusive Breastfeeding To Boost Child Health

Niger State Government has joined the global community in commemorating the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week, calling on mothers to embrace exclusive breastfeeding as a critical step towards improving child nutrition, food security and reducing poverty.

Flagging off the week-long activities in Minna, the Wife of the Governor, Fatima Bago, described exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of a child’s life as one of the strongest foundations for healthy growth and development.

Mrs. Bago said breast milk provides infants with the essential nutrients needed for healthy development, strengthens their immune system and protects them during their most vulnerable stages of life.

She stressed that breastfeeding should not be the responsibility of mothers alone, urging husbands to provide support at home, employers to implement breastfeeding-friendly workplace policies, and healthcare workers to continue offering accurate information, counselling and guidance on optimal infant-feeding practices.

The Executive Director of the Niger State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Junaidu Inuwa, said achieving optimal breastfeeding practices requires the collective commitment of government, families, healthcare professionals, development partners and communities.

According to him, World Breastfeeding Week is more than an annual event, describing it as a global call to action because breastfeeding remains one of the most effective interventions for reducing child mortality, improving nutrition and promoting lifelong health.

While acknowledging the progress made by Niger State in breastfeeding practices, Inuwa said more efforts are needed to achieve the global target of ensuring that at least 60 per cent of infants are exclusively breastfed by 2030.

He also commended Governor Umaru Bago for what he described as significant investments and interventions in the state’s health sector, particularly in maternal and child healthcare.

The 2026 World Breastfeeding Week is being observed under the theme, “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” highlighting breastfeeding as a key strategy for improving child health, enhancing nutrition and advancing sustainable development.