Abia State’s First Lady Launches 2024 World Breastfeeding Week

In a significant event marking the start of the 2024 World Breastfeeding Week, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, the wife of Abia State Governor, championed the cause of exclusive breastfeeding. The event took place at the Bishop Nwaedo Pastoral Center in Umuahia and was organized by the Abia State Primary Healthcare Development Agency. This year's theme, "Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All," aimed to address gaps in breastfeeding knowledge and support.

Represented by Mrs. Blessing Felix, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Otti urged nursing mothers to embrace breastfeeding with confidence, emphasizing that it provides children with the best possible start in life. She highlighted the vital role of a mother’s nutrition in ensuring the production of nourishing breast milk and called for greater attention to mothers' health.

Mrs. Otti also announced the State Government's commitment to creating a supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers. This includes the establishment of breastfeeding-friendly hospitals and communities, as well as the training of healthcare workers to provide comprehensive lactation support. She advocated for the creation of creche facilities in various government departments to assist working mothers.

Dr. Ifeyinwa Uma-Kalu, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, echoed Mrs. Otti's sentiments, describing breastfeeding as a divine provision for the healthy growth of children. She emphasized that breastfeeding not only nourishes but also strengthens the bond between mother and child.

Dr. Kalu U Kalu, Executive Secretary of the Abia State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, explained that the goal of World Breastfeeding Week is to raise awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding. He noted that this year’s theme specifically targets knowledge gaps and seeks to improve understanding among women.

Mr. Ephraim Chukwu, a UNICEF representative, praised the Abia State Government's efforts and highlighted the importance of breastfeeding within the first hour after birth and continuing exclusively for the first six months. He noted that the initiative aims to achieve 50 percent breastfeeding coverage by 2025, underscoring breastfeeding's crucial role in infant development and survival.

At the event, Mrs. Otti also distributed gifts and starter packs to nursing mothers, further supporting their journey in providing the best care for their children.

The inauguration of World Breastfeeding Week in Abia State underscored the commitment to enhancing breastfeeding practices and ensuring that all mothers receive the support they need.