The Kwara government has urged mothers to feed babies exclusively with breast milk for six months as the state aims for 70 per cent coverage across its 16 local government areas.

Nusirat Elelu, the executive secretary of the Kwara State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, made the call at a news conference on Monday to commemorate the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week.

The conference was organised by the Kwara government in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Vitamin Angels.

Ms Elelu observed that the exclusive breastfeeding rate was still low in the state, saying that achieving 70 per cent coverage would require shared responsibility.

She explained that the theme of the week, “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” was a powerful call to action.

‘’It reminds us that breastfeeding is the foundation of sustainable development, providing a healthy, nutritious start for every child,’’ she said.

According to Ms Elelu, Kwara has made commendable gains in breastfeeding, being among Nigeria’s first states to approve six-month maternity leave and establish crèches across government ministries.

“However, while we celebrate these achievements, we cannot afford to be complacent.

“To drive this change, we are promoting a Zero Water campaign.

‘’This campaign is vital because a critical misconception persists: the belief that babies under six months need additional water,” she said.

The executive secretary stated that breast milk is approximately 88 per cent water, providing all the hydration and nutrients a baby needs during the first six months of life.

According to her, introducing water or other liquids can introduce contaminants, increase the risk of diarrhoea, and reduce a baby’s intake of nutrient-rich breast milk, which compromises growth and immunity.

Ms Elelu disclosed that all pregnant women in Kwara are entitled to receive free Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) at all Primary Health Centres (PHCs).

She added that since the beginning of 2026, more than 14,423 pregnant women had already received MMS.

‘’MMS is a vital intervention aimed at preventing maternal malnutrition, anaemia in pregnancy, and the incidence of preterm and low-birth-weight deliveries.

“A well-nourished mother produces the best quality milk for her child.

‘’I urge every pregnant woman to visit the nearest PHC to register and collect her free supplements,” she said. 

(NAN)