NSN calls for actionable steps to create breastfeeding-friendly society
By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
In commemoration of World Breastfeeding Week, the Nutrition Society of Nigeria (NSN) has urged policymakers, employers, and community leaders to take concrete actions towards fostering a breastfeeding-friendly society.
In a statement, titled “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All,” NSN highlighted the critical need for comprehensive and equitable breastfeeding support to ensure better health outcomes for mothers and children, aligning with global health and nutrition goals.
A leading professional organization dedicated to advancing the science and practice of nutrition, the NSN issued this statement to raise awareness and advocate for improved breastfeeding support across the country.
“The Nutrition Society of Nigeria (NSN) is proud to join the global community in celebrating World Breastfeeding Week 2024, observed annually from August 1st to 7th.
This year’s theme, ‘Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All,’ emphasizes the urgent need to provide comprehensive and equitable breastfeeding support to every mother and child, regardless of their circumstances,” the statement read.
Reiterating that breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure the health and survival of infants, offering essential nutrients, and strengthening the immune system, the Society noted with dismay that despite these benefits, many mothers encounter significant challenges in initiating and maintaining breastfeeding due to a lack of support, misinformation, and socio-economic barriers.
The NSN also acknowledged the efforts of the Nigerian government, through the Federal Ministry of Health and other stakeholders, in improving breastfeeding practices, particularly the increase in the exclusive breastfeeding rate to 34%. However, it decried that this figure falls short of the 2025 target of 50% as outlined in the National Policy on Food and Nutrition and the WHO global target.
The organization also disclosed it has been at the forefront of advocating for six months of paid maternity leave for working mothers, the establishment of workplace breastfeeding policies in public service across all states, and increased access to education and appropriate information for mothers, especially in rural areas. They emphasized that the government needs to intensify its efforts to achieve the global target of at least a 50% exclusive breastfeeding rate.
“As we celebrate World Breastfeeding Week 2024, the Nutrition Society of Nigeria calls for concerted efforts from all stakeholders to ensure that every mother receives the support she needs to breastfeed successfully. This includes access to accurate information, practical guidance, and a supportive environment in healthcare settings, workplaces, and communities,” the statement added.
The NSN further pledged to continue collaborating with relevant stakeholders to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding and the need for inclusive support systems. By empowering mothers with the knowledge and resources they need, the NSN aims to provide the best start in life for children across Nigeria.
