The Kogi State Government has approved six months of paid maternity leave for mothers and 14 days of paid paternity leave for fathers in the state.
Dr Adeiza Abdulazeez, the Commissioner for Health, announced this on Monday, August 4, 2025, in Lokoja, during events marking World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) 2025.
Represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr Steven Momoh, Abdulazeez stated that the policy aims to support breastfeeding mothers across the state by creating an enabling environment for them to care for their infants and promote healthy development.
“The paid leave will enable mothers to breastfeed exclusively, giving babies the best nutrition and protection from early childhood illnesses,” he said, adding that the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to raising breastfeeding awareness and supporting maternal health.
The policy also allows fathers to bond with their newborns and support their partners during the critical early stages of parenthood.
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Abdulazeez described the measure as a significant step towards fostering a breastfeeding-friendly environment in Kogi, demonstrating the government’s dedication to supporting working mothers and promoting optimal infant feeding practices.
“This move will improve health outcomes for mothers and children and could serve as a model for other states,” he said.
He highlighted that this year’s WBW theme, “Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems,” underscores the need for robust community support for mothers.
“Breast milk provides the best nutrition, protects babies from illness, and supports healthy physical and mental development,” he noted, adding that breastfeeding also benefits mothers by aiding postpartum recovery, reducing cancer risks, and helping to space pregnancies.
The commissioner urged religious and traditional leaders to back the government’s efforts and promote breastfeeding within their communities.