The United Nations Children’s Fund has called for urgent action to improve breastfeeding rates in Borno State, revealing that only 35.5% of Nigerian newborns receive breastmilk within the critical first hour after birth.
Speaking at the launch of 2025 World Breastfeeding Week in Maiduguri on Saturday, UNICEF’s Chief of Field Office Francis Busiku emphasized the life-saving importance of early breastfeeding initiation and exclusive breastfeeding for six months.
“Every child in Borno deserves breastmilk within that golden first hour,” Busiku stated, noting the state’s current exclusive breastfeeding rate stands at just 28.8%. This year’s theme, “Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support System,” focuses on helping vulnerable women in conflict-affected areas.
The UNICEF official warned against dangerous alternatives, saying: “Breastmilk substitutes and unsafe water pose serious infant health risks. We urge enforcement of marketing codes to protect children.” He highlighted breastmilk’s unique benefits – complete nutrition, illness protection, and optimal development.
Busiku called on Borno’s government to strengthen maternal policies, increase funding, and revitalize community nutrition programs. “Through sustained commitment, we can transform breastfeeding practices statewide,” he said, pledging UNICEF’s continued support.
The appeal comes as Nigeria works to improve child survival rates, particularly in northern states facing humanitarian challenges. Experts say proper breastfeeding could prevent thousands of infant deaths annually from malnutrition and disease.
