Oyo First Lady Campaigns Nursing Mothers’ Rights, Promotion Of Exclusive Breastfeeding

Mrs. Tamunominini Makinde, the wife of the governor of Oyo State, has advocated for the state to support exclusive breastfeeding and strengthen the rights of nursing mothers, citing the many advantages it provides for both moms and infants.

She made this statement on Thursday at a celebration of the 2024 World Breastfeeding Week in the capital city of Oyo state, Ibadan, which was arranged by her office.

“We must create a society where nursing mothers are supported and empowered to breastfeed their babies without fear of stigma or discrimination,” Mrs. Makinde said.

She emphasized that nursing improves a baby’s cognitive development, strengthens the link between a mother and her child, and lowers the chance of infant death.

“Breast milk is the best gift we can give our children, and we must do everything possible to promote and support breastfeeding,” she added.

In addition, Mrs. Makinde supported the implementation of crèches and nursing rooms in public areas as means of fostering an environment that is supportive of nursing mothers’ decision to nurse their infants.

“We need to make our public spaces friendly to nursing mothers, so they can feel comfortable and confident breastfeeding their babies,” she said.

The Oyo Primary Health Care Board’s Director of Nutrition, Dr. Khadeejah Alarape, also spoke and educated the nursing moms on the need of eating a healthy diet.

She gave her word that the state government will keep funding programs that enhance the health of mothers and children and encourage breastfeeding.

The event featured breastfeeding awareness walk with participants including healthcare professionals, nursing mothers, and stakeholders in the health sector.

Food items and cash were provided to the nursing mothers in attendance by the governor’s wife.