The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called for stronger support from employers, families, health workers and communities to improve exclusive breastfeeding rates in Southwest Nigeria, describing breastmilk as every child’s “first vaccine” and the foundation for a healthy start in life.
The appeal was made by the Chief of UNICEF Field Office, Lagos, Ms. Celine Lafoucriere, in a message to commemorate the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week.
Lafoucriere said although most Nigerian mothers breastfeed their babies, too few practise early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding in line with global recommendations.
According to her, only one in three babies in Nigeria is put to the breast within the first hour after birth, while only three in 10 infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life without water, infant formula or solid foods.
She stressed that exclusive breastfeeding protects children against diseases, promotes brain development and provides the best possible start in life at no financial cost to families.
“Breastmilk is the first vaccine every baby receives. It protects against sickness. It builds a stronger brain. It gives a child the best possible start in life. And it costs nothing,” she said.
Lafoucriere noted that Southwest Nigeria, with its healthcare facilities, vibrant economy and growing population of working mothers, has the potential to significantly improve breastfeeding practices.
She, however, emphasised that mothers cannot achieve this alone, calling for a supportive environment at home, in health facilities and at workplaces.
The UNICEF official urged employers to provide nursing mothers with adequate time and private spaces to breastfeed or express breastmilk, while advising health workers to ensure newborns are breastfed within the first hour after delivery.
She also appealed to husbands, grandparents, religious leaders and other family members to encourage and support breastfeeding mothers instead of discouraging them through misinformation or social pressure.
Addressing mothers directly, Lafoucriere praised their sacrifices and commitment to giving their children the best possible start in life.
“To every mother in Lagos feeding her child right now, alone in the quiet hours of the night, we see you. You are giving your child your child’s first and best gift. UNICEF, its partners and your government stand with you,” she said.
World Breastfeeding Week is observed annually from August 1 to 7 to promote breastfeeding and raise awareness of its health benefits for infants and mothers. This year’s campaign reinforces the need for collective action to create enabling environments that support breastfeeding and improve child survival and development outcomes.
