The Borno State Government and World Health Organization (WHO) have raised concerns about the alarming gaps in breastfeeding support in the conflict-affected reas in the state.
At a campaign launch in Maiduguri on Thursday, the WHO State Coordinator in Borno Field Office, Dr. Salisu Audu explained the dire situation, saying millions of mothers are being denied the basic right to breastfeed, leaving their babies vulnerable to life-threatening diseases and malnutrition.
He said the campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding and address the challenges faced by mothers in conflict-hit areas.
Dr. Audu noted that breastfeeding is a fundamental right, not just a choice, and called for barriers to be broken down to ensure every mother can breastfeed without fear or stigma.
He stressed the importance of breastfeeding support in building a society that values life, saying: “We must work together to create a world where every mother can breastfeed with confidence and dignity.”
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Dr. Audu urged the public to join the conversation, attend events, and demand “Breastfeeding support for all”, explaining that every mother deserves support to give her child the best possible start in life.
Speaking on the occasion of World Breastfeeding Day, Mrs. Falmata Babagana Zulum called on the government, healthcare providers, and community leaders to work together to create an enabling environment for breastfeeding mothers.
Falmata represented by the Commissioner of Women affairs and social development, Mrs. Zuwaira Gambo, urged families and communities to promote breastfeeding as a vital aspect of childcare.
“We must ensure that every mother has access to the support and resources she needs to breastfeed her child successfully,” she said.