As part of the World Breastfeeding Week celebrations, UNICEF U-Reporters in Kano State, Northern Nigeria, organised a sensitisation campaign to promote exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months among mothers.
The campaign sought to raise public awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding and encourage caregivers to adopt the practice.
U-Reporter official, Kabir Abubakar Usman, noted during the campaign that exclusive breastfeeding is crucial for babies aged 0–6 months, as it helps them develop sharp brains and strong immune systems.
According to him, there is a danger in giving children water, particularly with plastic bottles, as well as certain types of food.
He explained that avoiding exclusive breastfeeding can have serious consequences for both mothers and babies.
For infants, not breastfeeding exclusively during the first six months can increase the risk of gastrointestinal infections, respiratory illnesses, ear infections, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Usman urged fathers to encourage their wives to practise exclusive breastfeeding, emphasising its vital role in promoting children’s health.
Breastfeeding, he stressed, is essential for a child’s growth and development, providing vital nutrients and protection against diseases such as pneumonia, cholera, and neonatal jaundice.
“The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, with continued breastfeeding up to two years or beyond.
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“Exclusive breastfeeding increases the chemistry of love between mother and child, and also improves the child’s health physically and mentally.
“Babies who are formula-fed are also more likely to develop necrotizing enterocolitis, a serious disease that affects premature babies.
“Moreover, not breastfeeding can impact cognitive development, leading to lower IQs and worse academic performance,” Usman added.
He further explained that, by promoting exclusive breastfeeding, UNICEF U-Reporters are contributing to a healthier and more sustainable future for children.
“Breastfeeding is the foundation of lifelong health and well-being. It is a simple, cost-effective, and natural way to provide infants with the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development.
“The World Breastfeeding Week celebration is an opportunity to amplify the voices of young people and shape policies and decisions that promote positive change in communities.
“Through the U-Report platform, young people are empowered with knowledge and encouraged to share their opinions and experiences on issues related to health, education, and social matters.”