UNICEF Urges Support for Exclusive Breastfeeding in Nigeria

The 2026 edition of World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) began with the theme ‘Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works’. This year's celebration coincides with UNICEF's concerns regarding Nigeria's exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) rate, which stands at 29%, significantly lower than the 60% recommended by both UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Dr. Hilary Ozoh, Officer-in-Charge of UNICEF Field Office in Enugu, emphasized that misinformation, harmful social norms, inadequate workplace support, and inconsistent public messaging hinder breastfeeding practices. The campaign aims to promote EBF for infants in their first six months and continued breastfeeding for up to two years or beyond.

Despite the benefits of breastfeeding, including improved immunity and reduced infections, many mothers face challenges due to a lack of support and cultural barriers. The Nutrition Society of Nigeria (NSN) advocates for a six-month paid maternity leave and workplace breastfeeding policies, noting that less than ten percent of organizations in Nigeria currently have such policies.