Niger State and UNICEF Promote Exclusive Breastfeeding

The Niger State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Education Fund (UNICEF), has called on women in Niger State to actively promote exclusive breastfeeding. This appeal was made during the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week held in Minna, where it was noted that the state has not yet achieved the national average of 56% for exclusive breastfeeding.

To raise awareness, a road walk was organized, which took place under heavy rain from the Kuta Memorial Primary Healthcare Centre to the Obasanjo complex. Daniel Jiya, the Director of Food and Drugs at the Niger State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, led the walk and emphasized the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a child's life.

He stated that breast milk provides essential nutrients, vitamins, and antibodies necessary for healthy growth. The week-long celebration will include various activities, with a flag-off event scheduled to be led by the wife of the Niger State governor.