Bauchi State and UNICEF Launch Campaign to Boost Exclusive Breastfeeding

The Bauchi State government, in collaboration with UNICEF, has launched a campaign to commemorate the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week, aiming to address concerns over poor breastfeeding practices contributing to child malnutrition and high infant mortality rates.

The global theme, “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” emphasizes reinforcing proven interventions and expanding support systems for optimal breastfeeding. In Bauchi State, the campaign highlights a critical gap: while over 90% of mothers breastfeed, only 26% practice exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. Furthermore, just 12% initiate breastfeeding within the first hour after birth, a crucial period for newborns to receive colostrum, which acts as the baby's first vaccination.

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The first breast milk is like the baby’s first vaccination because it provides immunity against diseases. Giving water or other substances before breastfeeding exposes newborns to germs and increases their risk of diarrhoea, cholera and respiratory infections.

Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, UNICEF's Chief of Field Office in Bauchi, stressed that newborns should receive colostrum within an hour of birth without any pre-lacteal feeds like water or honey, as these can increase the risk of infections. She explained that the low rate of exclusive breastfeeding perpetuates a cycle of illness and malnutrition, making infants highly vulnerable. UNICEF is also promoting its "Zero Water" initiative, educating mothers that breast milk provides all necessary hydration and nutrition for the first six months.

Misinformation, inadequate counseling, and limited workplace support are identified as key barriers to optimal breastfeeding. However, UNICEF commended the Bauchi State Government for approving six months of paid maternity leave for public servants, recognizing it as a significant step towards enabling more mothers to exclusively breastfeed. The state's allocation of ₦500 million for the Child Nutrition Fund was also praised, with hopes for its prompt release to procure essential nutrition commodities.

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The Bauchi State Government for approving six months of paid maternity leave for public servants, describing it as a major milestone that would enable more mothers to practise exclusive breastfeeding.