Osun govt urges mothers to prioritise exclusive breastfeeding

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –

Osun State Government has urged nursing mothers to prioritise exclusive breastfeeding for their infants despite growing economic pressures that often force them to split their attention between child care and income-generating activities.

Speaking during a one-day public enlightenment programme to mark the 2025 World Breastfeeding Week in Osogbo, the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, stressed that breastfeeding is a key factor in the healthy development of infants. He said Governor Ademola Adeleke approved the programme to address gaps in advocacy and awareness in the state.

Alimi acknowledged the tough economic situation, noting that many mothers are tempted to focus on daily livelihoods at the expense of breastfeeding. He urged mothers not to get distracted, describing breastfeeding as critical to their babies’ growth and well-being.

He advised that babies be breastfed at least 12 times daily for the first six months of life, a period he described as crucial for brain formation and physical development. “There might be competition between the man and the baby; please give priority to the baby to have enough breastfeeding,” he said.

The State Nutrition Officer, Mrs. Rasheedat Oluwakemi Popoola, described breastfeeding as a foundation for building a healthy and productive nation. She said breast milk is a complete food for infants and a natural defence against diseases.

Popoola explained that the first stage of breastfeeding — the colostrum — is rich in antibodies and serves as the baby’s first immunisation. “A baby that is well fed with colostrum will be strong. All the immunoglobulins, vitamins, and minerals like calcium and potassium that the child needs are in breast milk,” she noted.

She advocated for six months of paid maternity leave for mothers and at least two weeks for fathers to support exclusive breastfeeding practices in the state. She said similar policies in other states have proven successful in improving child health outcomes.

Popoola added that adopting such measures in Osun would be a significant step toward raising healthy individuals who can contribute meaningfully to the future of the state.