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From Timothy Olanrewaju, Maiduguri
The World Health Organisation (WHO) and Borno State government said emergency situation triggered by insurgency was affecting exclusive breastfeeding by nursing mothers in the state.
WHO Emergency Manager in Northeast, Dr. Richard Lako while speaking at the flag off of the 2022 World Breastfeeding Week in Maiduguri, Borno State capital Tuesdayy said limited space in the camps for displaced persons, emotional stress caused by the violence among others, were slowing down rates of breastfeeding in the state.
“Certain factors such as emotional stress, physical exhaustion, lack of space and privacy and poor sanitation experienced by mothers in emergency setting; led to many babies missing the benefits of breastfeeding,” he said.
He said exclusive breastfeeding makes children less susceptible to diseases and infection while it also helps in their survive.
Wife of Borno State governor, Dr Falmata Zulum expressed concern over the low rate of breastfeeding in the state. She said the 44 percent rate which translate to breastfeed of two out of five children, was unhealthy.
Represented by the Commissioner of women afffaisy Hajiya Zuwara Gambo, she said this year theme; Step Up for Breastfeeding, Educate and Support, was apt.
She called for support for nursing mothers and guardians. She appealed to traditional and religious to join the campaigns to step up breastfeeding in the state.
