Wife of the governor of Plateau State, Helen Mutfwang, has said the state recorded a rise in the indices of exclusive breastfeeding from 19 per cent to 38 per cent.

Mrs Mutfwang made the disclosure on Friday in Jos, at the commemoration of the 2025 World Breastfeeding Week with the theme “Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems.”

The governor’s wife stated that government was committed to creating a supportive environment that encouraged exclusive breastfeeding.

Mrs Mutfwang said research had shown that breastfeeding was immensely beneficial to both babies and their mothers.

“Breastfeeding is also beneficial for mothers. It reduces the risk of certain cancers, including breast and ovarian cancers, and promotes postpartum weight loss. Beastfeeding burns calories and helps the uterus contract back to its pre-pregnancy size, aiding in maternal recovery,“ she said.

She further said breastfed children had optimal nutrition and were at a lower risk of developing chronic diseases later in life.

Mrs Mutfwang added that breastfeeding also supported brain development of the child and bonding between mother and child.

According to her, optimal breastfeeding positively impacts the national economy by lowering healthcare costs and cultivating a smarter, healthier workforce.

She called on stakeholders from both the formal and informal sectors to create breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and support working mothers to balance their responsibilities to enable them to breastfeed their babies.

“We all must join hands with the government to create an enabling environment that supports women in providing the best care for their infants.

“Government should also ensure that mothers have access to accurate information to make informed choices about breastfeeding,” she said.

The governor’s wife awarded five mothers who breastfed their babies well at the Maiadiko Primary Health Centre in Rayfield with baby item prizes to encouraging other mothers. 

(NAN)