The First Lady of Imo State, Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma, has called on mothers to prioritize exclusive breastfeeding to ensure the optimal health of their babies. Speaking at the launch of the 2024 World Breastfeeding Week in Owerri, Mrs. Uzodimma emphasized the critical role breastfeeding plays in reducing under-five mortality rates.
Addressing the gathering through the Women Affairs Commissioner, Lady Nkechinyere Ugwu, Mrs. Uzodimma highlighted the theme of this year’s event, “Closing the Gap… Break the Record, Break Barriers: Breastfeeding Support for All.” She encouraged mothers to exclusively breastfeed their infants for at least the first six months, stressing that breastfeeding is not just a personal choice but a public health imperative that safeguards the lives of children.
“This global event serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of breastfeeding in reducing child mortality. Let us all be advocates, ensuring that every mother is supported to breastfeed without barriers,” Mrs. Uzodimma stated.
She also acknowledged the efforts of the Ministry of Primary Health, Social Services and Health Insurance, Imo State Primary Health Care Development Agency, NPHCDA, UNICEF, WHO, and other partners who have tirelessly worked to support reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health programs in the state.
The First Lady further commended the collective efforts of the Governors’ Wives Forum in promoting breastfeeding across the nation, with a goal of having 30,000 women breastfeeding simultaneously.
