Kwara advocates implementation of six months maternity leave to support exclusive breastfeeding
In a bid to strengthen exclusive breastfeeding initiatives in Kwara State, the State Committee on Food and Nutrition (SCFN) has initiated advocacy visits to facilitate the implementation of a six-month maternity leave for civil servants.
During a meeting held on Tuesday with the Acting Head of Service, Alhaji Ibrahim Muhammad, and the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Afolashade Oluwakemi, both officials expressed their support for the initiative at the Governor’s Office in Ilorin.
Alhaji Kayode Alimi, Acting Chairman of the SCFN, emphasized that while the implementation of the six-month maternity leave has already received Federal approval, actions must be taken to expedite the process following the State government’s announcement on May 29, 2023.
He highlighted the potential benefits this policy would bring to mothers, infants, and overall civil service productivity.
“While the State government is committed to implementing this policy, our committee believes in the importance of advocacy to engage all stakeholders for timely action,” he stated.
Dr. Habeeb Lawal, Project Manager of Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria, underscored the critical nature of addressing malnutrition in the country, warning that malnourished children cannot contribute effectively to the economy. He noted that fourteen states have already adopted the six-month maternity leave policy.
“Focusing on nurturing our children, who are the future leaders, is essential; providing them with nutritious food is a priority,” he added. He also called on the State government to begin the implementation of the maternity leave policy for breastfeeding mothers and proposed the establishment of Nutrition Departments across various ministries and agencies.
In response, Alhaji Ibrahim Muhammad commended the SCFN for their relentless efforts in promoting child nutrition and discussed the government’s commitment to supporting breastfeeding mothers through the policy. Similarly, Hon. Afolashade Oluwakemi acknowledged the committee’s work and emphasized the importance of encouraging nursing mothers to breastfeed adequately. Represented by Hajia Adenike Akanni, the Ministry of Women Affairs assured that they would monitor the implementation of the initiative closely.
