Anambra State Governor’s Wife Advocates Extended Breastfeeding for Babies | Cliptv Online

Mrs. Nonye Soludo, wife of the Anambra State governor, has emphasized the importance of extended breastfeeding for babies, citing its potential to reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer in mothers. Speaking through the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, during the launch of this year’s World Exclusive Breastfeeding Week and Zero Water initiative in Ojoto, Idemili South local government area, Mrs. Soludo highlighted various health benefits of breastfeeding for both babies and mothers.

According to Mrs. Soludo, breastfeeding not only strengthens the child’s health and survival but also contributes to improved cognitive development, reducing the likelihood of obesity and diabetes later in life. Breast milk, she emphasized, is the ideal food for infants, as it contains antibodies that protect against many common childhood illnesses, ensuring a safe and clean source of nutrition.

The program is being carried out in collaboration with the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, the State Ministry of Health, and partners, including the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Mrs. Chisom Uchem, the Executive Secretary of the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency and a pharmacist, highlighted the health benefits of breastfeeding for both mothers and babies, citing lower hospitalization rates and improved overall health for well-breastfed infants.

Amaka Obi, the Transition Committee Chairman of Idemili South local government area, commended the theme of this year’s World Breastfeeding Week celebration, “Enable breastfeeding – Making A Difference For Working Parents.” She stressed that this theme would promote support for mothers to sustain exclusive breastfeeding and guide policymakers in formulating policies that prioritize exclusive breastfeeding practices. The program aims to raise awareness about the significant health advantages of breastfeeding and encourage parents and communities to support breastfeeding initiatives for healthier and thriving children.