The Lagos State Government has called on breastfeeding mothers and pregnant women to support its advocacy for exclusive breastfeeding. The appeal was made by Dr. Olufemi Aletan, Medical Director/CEO of the General Hospital, Ijede, during a commemoration of the 2024 World Breastfeeding Week on Monday.
The initiative, backed by the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, aims to promote the importance and benefits of exclusive breastfeeding. The state government has made six months of maternity leave mandatory for civil servants to ensure adequate breastfeeding.
Dr. Aletan emphasized that exclusive breastfeeding is crucial for bonding between mother and baby and has numerous advantages, including:
– Preventing breast cancer
– Aiding postpartum healing
– Economic benefits
– Enhancing baby’s intelligence quotient
– Promoting bonding
He warned against introducing water or baby milk except on medical grounds, stressing that exclusive breastfeeding is essential for a healthy society.
The event featured a playlet and quiz segment by the hospital’s Paediatric Department staff. The theme of this year’s World Breastfeeding Week, recognized by the World Health Organization from August 1st to 7th, is “Closing The Gap: Breastfeeding Support For All”.