As part of activities marking the World Breastfeeding Week 2025, the Kogi State Government has reiterated commitment to maternal and child health with the approval of six months paid maternity leave and 14 days paid paternity leave for all working parents in the state.
The announcement was made during a press briefing by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Steven Momoh.
Emphasizing the vital role of breastfeeding in child development, Mr. Momoh described it as an irreplaceable source of nutrition and protection for infants.
“Breast milk is nature’s first vaccine, packed with essential nutrients, antibodies, and hormones tailored to protect and nourish infants. It supports healthy brain development, builds immunity, and strengthens the mother-child bond,” he said.
Mr. Momoh restated the state’s proactive stance, noting that the newly approved leave policy underscores the dedication of the Ododo-led administration to creating a supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers and working families in the state.
“This initiative, approved by His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, is a clear demonstration of the state’s commitment to family health and child nutrition,” he noted.
He further explained that ministries across the state are being encouraged to establish crèches to support nursing mothers returning to work, stressing that the government is also promoting breastfeeding-friendly public spaces and has begun training healthcare workers to offer specialized lactation support and counseling services in hospitals and clinics across Lokoja and other parts of the state.
Acknowledging the challenges many mothers face despite the well-documented benefits of breastfeeding, Mr. Momoh called for broader societal support for women.
“We need to normalize and celebrate breastfeeding in our homes, workplaces, worship centers, and public spaces,” he added.
He also called on communities, religious leaders, and traditional institutions to champion the cause by promoting women and family-friendly environment.
Earlier, the Executive Director, Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Mu’azu Musa, commended the leadership of the Honourable Commissioner for Health and acknowledged the efforts of healthcare professionals, community leaders, and stakeholders in creating a breastfeeding-friendly environment.
“We must work together to ensure that every mother in Kogi State is empowered with the resources and support needed to breastfeed her child successfully,” Dr. Musa emphasized.
This year’s World Breastfeeding Week continues in Kogi State with a series of sensitization campaigns and community-based activities aimed at raising awareness and building sustainable support systems for mothers and their infants.
