UNICEF calls on fathers to back nursing moms

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The United Nations Children’s Fund has called on fathers and other stakeholders in Borno State to provide the necessary support for breastfeeding mothers to enable them to feed infants with the nutrients they need to protect them against illnesses that can affect their cognitive development.

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The UNICEF Nutrition Manager in the state, Joseph Senesie, gave the advice on Monday at an event organised to commemorate World Breastfeeding Week 2026 in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

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Speaking on the theme, “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” Senesie said breastfeeding remains one of the most effective and affordable investments a society can make in the health, survival and development of children.

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He described breastfeeding as not only a health issue, saying it is also a development and economic issue.

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“Breastfeeding remains one of the most effective and affordable investments a society can make in the health, survival and development of children. It provides infants with the nutrients they need, protects them against illness, supports cognitive development and contributes to healthier futures,” he noted.

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The UNICEF representative called on families, development partners and the government to support breastfeeding mothers through care, adequate investment and enabling policies.

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“Investing in breastfeeding today means investing in human capital tomorrow.

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“The 2026 theme calls upon all of us to strengthen what works.

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“Successful breastfeeding is therefore not the responsibility of mothers alone. It requires a supportive system that includes fathers, grandparents, community leaders, employers, policymakers and development partners,” he added.

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He emphasised that breastfeeding benefits mothers, families, communities and national economies by reducing healthcare costs and improving productivity.

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“As UNICEF, we believe that breastfeeding is not only a health issue; it is also a development issue and an economic issue,” Senesie noted.

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He further commended the Borno State Government, health workers, community volunteers and partners who continue to champion maternal, newborn and child health services.

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“Your efforts have helped improve awareness and create opportunities for mothers to access breastfeeding counselling and support.

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“I also wish to recognise our mothers. Your commitment, resilience and unwavering love provide children with the strongest foundation for life. You are the true breastfeeding champions. We thank you for nurturing the next generation,” he stressed.

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On her part, the wife of the Borno State Governor, Falmata Zulum, emphasised the need for counselling services for women before, during and after childbirth.

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She said, “Breastfeeding is a child’s first food, protection and foundation for health. It strengthens the bond between mother and child.

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“I therefore call on all stakeholders to strengthen breastfeeding counselling across all antenatal, delivery and postnatal services, establish community mothers’ support groups, and engage fathers and community leaders,” Zulum noted.

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