Jigawa First Lady, UNICEF promote six months exclusive breastfeeding

​From Mika’il Tsoho, Dutse

Jigawa State First Lady, Hajiya Hadiza Umar Namadi, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has championed the promotion of six months of exclusive breastfeeding as a critical foundation for child survival and development in the state.
​Speaking at an event marking this year’s World Breastfeeding Week, themed “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” Hajiya Hadiza urged stakeholders to join hands in raising awareness about the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding to ensure every child gets a healthy start.
​She highlighted that the Jigawa State Government, through the State Primary Healthcare Agency and with support from international partners, has implemented key nutrition programs to improve maternal and child health.
She also commended Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her Renewed Hope Initiative, as well as Governor Malam Umar Namadi for prioritizing investments in primary healthcare and child nutrition.
​“The World Breastfeeding Week reminds all stakeholders of our shared responsibility to ensure every child has the strongest and healthiest start in life,” she said, appealing to parents, caregivers, and community leaders to actively support lactating mothers.
​Also speaking, Dr. Samuel Sesan Abolarin, UNICEF State Facilitator on Nutrition, described exclusive breastfeeding as a cost-effective solution to many of Nigeria’s present socioeconomic and health challenges.
​Reaffirming UNICEF’s commitment to protecting children’s rights and health, Dr. Abolarin praised the Jigawa State Government for its dedication to child welfare and pledged continued partnership to drive sustainable nutrition initiatives across the state.