As part of activities marking the 2025 World Breastfeeding Week, which holds annually from August first through seventh, the Obio/Akpor Local Government Council organized a sensitization and outreach program.
With the theme “Prioritize Breastfeeding: Create a Sustainable Support System”, the event held at the Rukpokwu Health Centre, Elikpokwu-Odu.
The awareness was formally flagged off by the Wife of the Administrator of Obio/Akpor LGA, Lady Josephine Walter, who was represented by Mrs. Happiness Walter.
In her remarks, Walter described breastfeeding as both a biological duty and a vital act of care that promotes the health of both mother and child.
She emphasized the unique nutritional value of breast milk, its role in strengthening infant immunity, and its protective effects against infections.
She also addressed barriers such as social stigma, misinformation, and lack of support, urging society to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for nursing mothers.
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“Let us build a world where every mother can breastfeed, and every child is given a healthy start,” she said.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the State Primary Healthcare Management Board, the State Health Educator, Dr. Babbo Diance, applauded the initiative, stressing the importance of supportive systems for breastfeeding in all areas of society.
“Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by continued breastfeeding up to two years and beyond, is essential for every child’s optimal development,” she noted.
The LGA Nutrition Officer, Mrs. Kate Samuel, led a hands-on session demonstrating proper breastfeeding techniques. She reiterated the importance of exclusive breastfeeding, giving only breast milk for the first six months, with no water or supplements unless medically necessary, and encouraged continued breastfeeding alongside family foods.
She also urged fathers to provide active support during this critical phase.
A key highlight of the event was the distribution of gift items to pregnant and nursing mothers, with special packages presented to babies born on the day.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Chiney Babep, Director of Health, thanked all participants and encouraged mothers to become advocates of breastfeeding in their communities.
“We hope you leave here as ambassadors of breastfeeding, promoting its lifelong benefits in your homes and beyond,” she said.
