The Civil Society-Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN), Kaduna State Chapter, has called for increased government commitment and investment in breastfeeding support, stressing that inadequate policies and persistent misconceptions are preventing many children from receiving the healthiest start in life.
The appeal was made in a statement issued by the Kaduna State Coordinator of CS-SUNN, Celestina Ngare Ayim, to mark the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week, observed globally from August 1 to 7.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Breastfeeding: For a Sustainable Start in Life – Strengthen What Works,” Ayim described breastfeeding as one of the most effective and affordable interventions for improving child survival, nutrition and early childhood development.
She explained that breast milk provides all the essential nutrients infants need during their first six months, boosts immunity, protects against common childhood illnesses and significantly reduces the risks of malnutrition and child mortality.
Ayim also highlighted the health benefits for mothers, noting that breastfeeding lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, supports faster recovery after childbirth and strengthens the bond between mother and child.
Despite these benefits, she expressed concern that many mothers are unable to practise exclusive breastfeeding due to poor family and workplace support, widespread misinformation, cultural beliefs and limited access to skilled breastfeeding counselling.
She urged governments, healthcare providers, employers, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations, the media and families to strengthen support systems that enable mothers to initiate and sustain breastfeeding.
Ayim further called for greater investment in maternal, infant and young child nutrition programmes, implementation of family-friendly workplace policies, sustained public awareness campaigns to dispel breastfeeding myths and continuous capacity building for healthcare workers.
She added that promoting and supporting breastfeeding is a collective responsibility that will improve child nutrition, reduce preventable deaths, strengthen families and contribute to sustainable development in Kaduna State and across Nigeria.
