Taiwo Bankole
Towards improving maternal health in the state, the wife of Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun has offered cash and food items to over 200 nursing mothers.
Abiodun, according to a statement on Saturday, presented the gifts during an awareness programme organised by her office in celebration of Breastfeeding Week with the theme, “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All”.
The programme was held at Ilisan Primary Healthcare Center, Ilisan Remo, Ikenne Local Government Area of the state.
The First Lady reiterated her dedication to promoting breastfeeding through sensitisation, education and community engagements, to enable mothers, families and the general populace to know the significance of exclusive breastfeeding in particular.
Abiodun said ‘’breastfeeding is a right and not a privilege. It is more than just a means of nourishment but a vital pillar for a healthy start in life, laying the foundation for lifelong well-being.
‘’Despite the overwhelming evidence supporting its importance, significant gaps remain in the availability of breastfeeding support. Many mothers, particularly those in underserved communities, face challenges that hinder their ability to breastfeed successfully.”
She noted Governor Dapo Abiodun has made remarkable strides in promoting maternal and child health, through the bi-annual Vitamin A supplementation and comprehensive nutrition education programmes, which have positively impacted breastfeeding rates.
The governor’s wife promised to intensify efforts to close the breastfeeding gap, by focusing on extensive support for all mothers, regardless of their circumstances.
She said that her office would collaborate with healthcare providers, community leaders and Civil Society Organisations, to create an environment where breastfeeding would be encouraged and sustained.
The First Lady called on development partners, corporate organisations and all stakeholders to join hands in achieving the task.
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