Kwara govt grants six-month paid maternity leave for female civil servants
The Kwara state government has approved a six-month fully paid maternity leave for female civil servants, aimed at supporting and empowering nursing mothers across the state’s workforce.
In an official circular dated August 1, 2025, from the Office of the Head of Service and communicated to all relevant government departments, commissions, and agencies, the approval was granted by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, reflecting the administration’s commitment to enhancing maternity leave benefits for eligible female civil servants.
The statement reads, “This is to bring to your attention that His Excellency, the Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has approved Six (6) Months Maternity Leave for nursing Female Civil Servants in the State.”
This decision follows the Kwara government’s earlier action in August 2023, when it extended maternity leave from three months to six months for working mothers.
Olufolake Abdulrazaq, the wife of the governor, highlighted this extension during the launch of World Breastfeeding Week in Ilorin, emphasizing the need to support women’s rights to freely breastfeed in any location.
Abdulrazaq praised the governor for his efforts, noting that the new policy aligns with promoting exclusive breastfeeding practices among nursing mothers.
“World Breastfeeding Week has the dual goal of improving the health of babies and promoting, protecting, and supporting the rights of women to breastfeed anywhere and at any time,” she stated.
Additionally, the first lady recognized the establishment of crèches in various ministries as a positive step towards encouraging breastfeeding among working mothers. She reminded the public that Chapter 54 of the Nigerian Labour Act entitles nursing mothers to three months of leave, during which they should receive at least 50 percent of their monthly wages.
This initiative represents a significant advancement in supporting working mothers in Kwara State, setting a commendable example for other regions.
Source: Sahara Reporters
