Breastfeeding week: Kwara targets 70% exclusive breastfeeding coverage

The Kwara Government has advised mothers on exclusive breastfeeding of babies for the first six months after birth, as the state targets 70 percent exclusive breastfeeding coverage across its 16 local government areas.

The Week is organised by Kwara Government in collaboration with United Nation Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and VITAMIN ANGELS.

Prof. Nusirat Elelu, the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, made the call while speaking on Monday in Ilorin, at a news conference organised to commemorate the World Breastfeeding Week 2026.

Elelu observed that exclusive breastfeeding rate is still low in the state and achieving a 70 percent coverage target required shared responsibility.

She explained that the theme of the Week: “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” is a powerful call to action, which reminds mothers that breastfeeding is the foundation of sustainable development, providing a healthy, nutritious start for every child.

Elelu said that Kwara has recorded commendable progress in the promotion of breastfeeding, having been among the first state in Nigeria to approve a six-month maternal leave policy and to establish creches within government ministries.

“However, while we celebrate these achievements, we cannot afford to be complacent.

“To drive this change, we are promoting a Zero Water campaign. This campaign is vital because a critical misconception persists: the belief that babies under six months need additional water,” she said.

The executive secretary stated that breast milk is approximately 88 percent water, which provides all the hydration and nutrients a baby needs for the first six months of life.

According to her, introducing water or other liquids can introduce contaminants, increase the risk of diarrhoea, and reduce a baby’s intake of nutrient-rich breast milk, which can compromise growth and immunity.

Elelu disclosed that all pregnant women in Kwara are entitled to receive free Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) at all Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs).

She added that since the beginning of 2026, more than 14,423 pregnant women have received MMS.

Elelu explained that MMS is a vital intervention aimed at preventing maternal malnutrition, anaemia in pregnancy, and the incidences of preterm and low birth weight deliveries.

“A well-nourished mother produces the best quality milk for her child. I urge every pregnant woman to visit the nearest PHC to register and collect her free supplements,” she said.