…honour donors
By Rita Okoye
As the world commemorates World Human Milk Donation Day today, MilkBankNG, Nigeria’s first and only human milk bank is recognising the incredible contributions of milk donors and addressing the unique challenges of pioneering milk banking in Nigeria.
It also extending an invitation to collaborate with like-minded organizations and individuals.
Central to MilkBankNG’s success are the selfless contributions of countless breast milk donors, whose stories continue to improve infant health and survival through the provision of safe, pasteurized donor breast milk.
One donor mother, Mrs. Modupe Folarin said that being able to share her ability to produce milk is a blessing, and she is thankful for the opportunity to support other young babies and make a positive difference.
“Having heard stories of the pain some mothers go through for not being able to breastfeed their babies due to no fault of theirs, I feel grateful to be able to produce milk, and it’s a blessing to be able to share.
“It’s amazing to think that my milk can help another baby thrive. It’s like having a superpower! Knowing my donation makes a difference feels like a badge of honor, and that makes it all worth it,” she added.
Through the invaluable support of Mrs. Folarin and other amazing donor mothers, MilkBankNG has been offering critical nourishment for premature babies in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).
MilkBankNG’s impact is deeply felt by mothers with babies in NICUs across Lagos, including Reddington Hospital, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, and Evercare. A nurse in the NICU at Reddington Hospital recently commended the massive impact made by the breast milk shared, noting that the babies who have been beneficiaries have experienced no complications of any sort.
“The donor breast milk has been invaluable to the babies in our NICU. It has significantly contributed to their growth and well-being while helping us prevent complications often associated with formula feeding. Your services have been exceptional, and we deeply appreciate the vision and dedication behind establishing a donor milk bank in Lagos.
None of the babies have experienced adverse reactions, which speaks to the high quality and safety of the milk provided”.
While a doctor in the NICU at Evercare Hospital revealed that the milk from donor mothers has been a groundbreaking point for many families: “Donor milk has been transformational for some of our families. For our NICU babies especially, donor milk has been nothing short of miraculous. The reduction in infections and digestive issues (Necrotizing Enterocolitis) speaks volumes, as well as the peace their parents now have.”
Through the dedication of breast milk donors, MilkBankNG has provided over 200 liters of pasteurized donor breast milk, supporting mothers, doctors, and midwives in caring for 47 vulnerable infants including twins and triplets. This life-saving milk has continued to ensure better outcomes for babies in NICUs at these hospitals.
Recognizing the enormity of this mission, Medical Doctor, Lactation Consultant, and Founder, MilkBankNG has stated that the organization remains open to collaboration with government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), corporate entities, and individuals who share a commitment to improving infant health and survival.
“Partnerships are essential to scaling our impact,” said Dr. Obinwanne, Medical Doctor, Lactation Consultant, and founder of MilkBankNG.
“We invite like-minded organisations and individuals to join us in this mission, whether through financial support, advocacy, or operational collaboration. Together, we can create a future where no baby is left without the nourishment they need to thrive.”
As part of this year’s celebration, MilkBankNG is set to launch a fundraising campaign aimed at expanding its impact and addressing the unique challenges of pioneering milk banking in Nigeria. Additionally, we will host events to recognize and celebrate the selflessness of our milk donors, whose contributions have been instrumental in saving the lives of vulnerable babies.
These initiatives will shed more light on the importance of milk donation, encouraging more mothers to join this life-saving mission, and fostering a community committed to improving infant health and survival across Nigeria.