The Federal Government has expressed concern over the low rate of exclusive breastfeeding in Nigeria, revealing that only 36 per cent of mothers exclusively breastfeed their babies during the first six months of life, a figure health experts say falls short of global targets.
The disclosure was made as Nigeria joined the rest of the world to commemorate World Breastfeeding Week 2026, observed annually from August 1 to 7. This year’s campaign, themed “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” highlights the need to expand proven interventions that improve breastfeeding outcomes.
According to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, exclusive breastfeeding remains one of the most effective ways to ensure healthy growth and development during a child’s early months. However, the ministry noted that the country’s current rate of 36 per cent indicates that many infants are still missing out on the nutritional and health benefits of breast milk.
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Health authorities explained that exclusive breastfeeding means feeding infants only breast milk for the first six months of life, without water, other liquids or solid foods, except prescribed medicines, vitamins or mineral supplements.
The ministry reiterated its recommendation that mothers initiate breastfeeding within one hour of birth, exclusively breastfeed for the first six months, and continue breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary foods until at least two years of age or beyond.
Medical experts say exclusive breastfeeding strengthens a child’s immune system, reduces the risk of infections, supports healthy brain development and lowers infant mortality. It also provides long-term health benefits for mothers, including reduced risks of certain cancers and other non-communicable diseases.
The Federal Government called on employers, healthcare workers, families and communities to provide stronger support for nursing mothers by creating breastfeeding-friendly environments at home, in healthcare facilities and in workplaces.
It stressed that improved maternity protection, workplace support, skilled breastfeeding counselling and public awareness are essential to increasing exclusive breastfeeding rates and improving child nutrition across the country.
The government also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening maternal and child nutrition programmes as part of broader efforts to reduce childhood malnutrition and improve health outcomes nationwide. Officials urged all stakeholders to work together to ensure that more Nigerian children receive the healthiest possible start in life.
