In celebration of Breastfeeding Week, Ogun State First Lady, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, has launched an initiative to support nursing mothers across the state, providing cash and food items to over 200 beneficiaries.
The support was given during an awareness program organized by her office, themed “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All”, held at Ilisan Primary Healthcare Center, Ilisan Remo, Ikenne Local Government Area of the state.
During the program, Mrs. Abiodun reiterated her dedication to promoting breastfeeding through sensitization, education, and community engagements. She emphasized the importance of empowering mothers, families, and the general populace to understand the significance of exclusive breastfeeding.
The First Lady’s initiative aims to create awareness and support for breastfeeding, ensuring that mothers have the necessary resources and knowledge to provide the best possible nutrition for their children. By doing so, she hopes to contribute to the overall health and wellbeing of families in Ogun State.
Abiodun said ‘’breastfeeding is a right and not a privilege. It is more than just a means of nourishment but a vital pillar for a healthy start in life, laying the foundation for lifelong well-being.
‘’Despite the overwhelming evidence supporting its importance, significant gaps remain in the availability of breastfeeding support. Many mothers, particularly those in underserved communities, face challenges that hinder their ability to breastfeed successfully.”
She noted Governor Dapo Abiodun has made remarkable strides in promoting maternal and child health, through the bi-annual Vitamin A supplementation and comprehensive nutrition education programmes, which have positively impacted breastfeeding rates.
The governor’s wife promised to intensify efforts to close the breastfeeding gap, by focusing on extensive support for all mothers, regardless of their circumstances.
She said that her office would collaborate with healthcare providers, community leaders and Civil Society Organisations, to create an environment where breastfeeding would be encouraged and sustained.
The First Lady called on development partners, corporate organisations and all stakeholders to join hands in achieving the task.
