The United Nations Children’s Fund has called on fathers, families and other stakeholders to provide stronger support for breastfeeding mothers, saying such efforts are essential to improving child health and development.
The appeal was made on Monday in Maiduguri during activities marking the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week, where UNICEF stressed that breastfeeding remains one of the most effective ways to ensure healthy growth and survival for infants.
Speaking at the event, UNICEF Nutrition Manager in Borno State, Joseph Senesie, said this year’s theme, “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” highlights the need for collective responsibility in supporting nursing mothers.
“Breastfeeding remains one of the most effective and affordable investments a society can make in the health, survival and development of children. It provides infants with the nutrients they need, protects them against illness, supports cognitive development and contributes to healthier futures,” Senesie said.
He noted that breastfeeding goes beyond being a health issue, describing it as an important development and economic investment that benefits families and the nation.
According to him, mothers cannot shoulder the responsibility alone, urging fathers, grandparents, employers, policymakers, community leaders and development partners to create an environment that enables women to breastfeed successfully.
“Successful breastfeeding is not the responsibility of mothers alone. It requires a supportive system that includes fathers, grandparents, community leaders, employers, policymakers and development partners. Investing in breastfeeding today means investing in human capital tomorrow,” he added.
Senesie also commended the Borno State Government, healthcare workers and community volunteers for promoting maternal and child health services, while praising mothers for their commitment to giving children the best start in life.
“Your efforts have improved awareness and expanded access to breastfeeding counselling and support. I also wish to recognise our mothers. Your commitment, resilience and unwavering love provide children with the strongest foundation for life,” he said.
Also speaking, the wife of the Borno State Governor, Falmata Zulum, called for improved counselling services for women before, during and after childbirth to encourage exclusive breastfeeding.
“Breastfeeding is a child’s first food, protection and foundation for health. It strengthens the bond between mother and child. We must strengthen breastfeeding counselling across antenatal, delivery and postnatal services, establish community mothers’ support groups and actively engage fathers and community leaders,” she said.
World Breastfeeding Week is observed annually to promote breastfeeding as a vital strategy for improving child survival, maternal health and sustainable development.
