As World Breastfeeding Week 2026 highlights the importance of supporting mothers, Nigeria faces challenges in turning policy into practice amid persistent barriers and low exclusive breastfeeding rates. Experts call for stronger enforcement, family-friendly workplace policies, and community education to give children the best start in life.
World Breastfeeding Week 2026 has again put the spotlight on a basic but often overlooked public health issue: whether mothers are actually supported to breastfeed. This year’s global theme, “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works”, shifted attention towards practical systems that help women feed their babies, particularly at work, rather than relying on awareness campaigns alone. WHO says the focus is on scaling proven measures, including skilled counselling, baby-friendly maternity care and tougher enforcement of the rules on breast-milk substitute marketing.
In Nigeria, the message has been echoed by government, the UN and child health advocates. UNICEF and WHO said the country has made some progress, but exclusive breastfeeding among infants under six months remains low at about 34 per cent, even after an increase over the past 12 years. UNICEF’s Nigerian office has argued that progress will depend on stronger monitoring, family-friendly workplace policies, paid maternity leave and breastfeeding breaks, as well as better access to support in health facilities and communities.
That warning matters because breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but also an economic one. WHO and UNICEF say investment in breastfeeding support can reduce child and maternal deaths and deliver substantial returns through lower healthcare spending, better cognitive development and higher lifetime earnings. Nigerian officials have also framed it as part of a broader nutrition agenda, with the Federal Government launching its 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign to strengthen feeding practices from pregnancy through early childhood.
The challenge, however, is that policy statements do not always translate into daily reality. The article highlights persistent barriers in Nigeria, including misconceptions that colostrum is dirty, patchy maternity protection and inconsistent enforcement of labour rules. While national law requires maternity leave with pay, women in the private sector are still said to face dismissal or reduced pay after childbirth, a problem that undermines breastfeeding even before mothers return to work.
NAFDAC has also joined the call for stronger action. At a World Breastfeeding Week capacity-building event in Lagos, its director-general, Mojisola Adeyeye, said breast milk gives children the best possible start and helps protect against common illnesses while supporting brain development. Taken together, the messages from health agencies and regulators point to the same conclusion: Nigeria already knows what works, but it now needs stronger enforcement, better workplace protection and sustained community education to make breastfeeding practical for more mothers.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
