The Federal Government on Monday launched the 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign as part of efforts to tackle child malnutrition and improve maternal and child health outcomes across the country.The initiative, unveiled during the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week commemoration in Abuja, is designed to promote better nutrition practices from pregnancy until a child’s second birthday—a period health experts describe as the most critical for physical growth, brain development and lifelong health.Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding, describing it as one of the most effective and cost-efficient interventions for improving child survival.She said this year’s World Breastfeeding Week theme, “Breastfeeding for Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” calls for stronger policies, quality health services, breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and greater community support for mothers.“Breastfeeding is one of the most effective, life-saving and cost-effective interventions for ensuring healthy child survival and development,” Kachollom said.She noted that the first 1,000 days of life—from conception until a child’s second birthday—represent a unique window for shaping a child’s future health and development.According to her, inadequate nutrition during this period can lead to irreversible consequences, including stunting, impaired brain development, weakened immunity and reduced productivity later in life.Kachollom expressed concern that although nearly 95 per cent of Nigerian mothers breastfeed, optimal breastfeeding practices remain far below recommended levels.Quoting findings from the 2023/2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, she said only 36 per cent of newborns are breastfed within one hour of birth, while just 29 per cent of infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months. She added that only 23 per cent of children continue breastfeeding until 24 months.“These figures remind us that much more needs to be done. We must strengthen our collective commitment to ensuring that every child receives the best possible start in life,” she said.She urged Nigerians to embrace the recommendations of the World Health Organisation and UNICEF, including initiating breastfeeding within one hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary feeding up to two years and beyond.The Permanent Secretary identified delayed breastfeeding initiation, harmful cultural beliefs, inadequate counselling, limited workplace support, aggressive marketing of breastmilk substitutes and weak community engagement as major barriers to optimal breastfeeding.Related NewsFG moves to end decades-long water crisis in Plateau LGNEMA receives 37 Nigerian returnees from TürkiyeFG begins training of 4,000 tractor operators for mechanisation drive“Overcoming these challenges requires collective action by governments, healthcare workers, employers, development partners, communities and families,” she added.Kachollom said the Federal Government was responding by strengthening the National Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition Strategy, expanding Baby-Friendly Hospital and Community Initiatives, building the capacity of health workers, enforcing regulations on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes, promoting breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and supporting community breastfeeding groups.She explained that the newly launched 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign would improve public awareness, encourage healthy nutrition practices and mobilise families and communities to adopt evidence-based nutrition behaviours during pregnancy, infancy and early childhood.“The campaign promotes improved maternal nutrition, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, continued breastfeeding and stronger community ownership of optimal nutrition practices,” she said.She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. The initiative, unveiled during the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week commemoration in Abuja, is designed to promote better nutrition practices from pregnancy until a child’s second birthday—a period health experts describe as the most critical for physical growth, brain development and lifelong health.Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding, describing it as one of the most effective and cost-efficient interventions for improving child survival.She said this year’s World Breastfeeding Week theme, “Breastfeeding for Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” calls for stronger policies, quality health services, breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and greater community support for mothers.“Breastfeeding is one of the most effective, life-saving and cost-effective interventions for ensuring healthy child survival and development,” Kachollom said.She noted that the first 1,000 days of life—from conception until a child’s second birthday—represent a unique window for shaping a child’s future health and development.According to her, inadequate nutrition during this period can lead to irreversible consequences, including stunting, impaired brain development, weakened immunity and reduced productivity later in life.Kachollom expressed concern that although nearly 95 per cent of Nigerian mothers breastfeed, optimal breastfeeding practices remain far below recommended levels.Quoting findings from the 2023/2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, she said only 36 per cent of newborns are breastfed within one hour of birth, while just 29 per cent of infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months. She added that only 23 per cent of children continue breastfeeding until 24 months.“These figures remind us that much more needs to be done. We must strengthen our collective commitment to ensuring that every child receives the best possible start in life,” she said.She urged Nigerians to embrace the recommendations of the World Health Organisation and UNICEF, including initiating breastfeeding within one hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary feeding up to two years and beyond.The Permanent Secretary identified delayed breastfeeding initiation, harmful cultural beliefs, inadequate counselling, limited workplace support, aggressive marketing of breastmilk substitutes and weak community engagement as major barriers to optimal breastfeeding.Related NewsFG moves to end decades-long water crisis in Plateau LGNEMA receives 37 Nigerian returnees from TürkiyeFG begins training of 4,000 tractor operators for mechanisation drive“Overcoming these challenges requires collective action by governments, healthcare workers, employers, development partners, communities and families,” she added.Kachollom said the Federal Government was responding by strengthening the National Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition Strategy, expanding Baby-Friendly Hospital and Community Initiatives, building the capacity of health workers, enforcing regulations on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes, promoting breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and supporting community breastfeeding groups.She explained that the newly launched 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign would improve public awareness, encourage healthy nutrition practices and mobilise families and communities to adopt evidence-based nutrition behaviours during pregnancy, infancy and early childhood.“The campaign promotes improved maternal nutrition, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, continued breastfeeding and stronger community ownership of optimal nutrition practices,” she said.She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding, describing it as one of the most effective and cost-efficient interventions for improving child survival.She said this year’s World Breastfeeding Week theme, “Breastfeeding for Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” calls for stronger policies, quality health services, breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and greater community support for mothers.“Breastfeeding is one of the most effective, life-saving and cost-effective interventions for ensuring healthy child survival and development,” Kachollom said.She noted that the first 1,000 days of life—from conception until a child’s second birthday—represent a unique window for shaping a child’s future health and development.According to her, inadequate nutrition during this period can lead to irreversible consequences, including stunting, impaired brain development, weakened immunity and reduced productivity later in life.Kachollom expressed concern that although nearly 95 per cent of Nigerian mothers breastfeed, optimal breastfeeding practices remain far below recommended levels.Quoting findings from the 2023/2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, she said only 36 per cent of newborns are breastfed within one hour of birth, while just 29 per cent of infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months. She added that only 23 per cent of children continue breastfeeding until 24 months.“These figures remind us that much more needs to be done. We must strengthen our collective commitment to ensuring that every child receives the best possible start in life,” she said.She urged Nigerians to embrace the recommendations of the World Health Organisation and UNICEF, including initiating breastfeeding within one hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary feeding up to two years and beyond.The Permanent Secretary identified delayed breastfeeding initiation, harmful cultural beliefs, inadequate counselling, limited workplace support, aggressive marketing of breastmilk substitutes and weak community engagement as major barriers to optimal breastfeeding.Related NewsFG moves to end decades-long water crisis in Plateau LGNEMA receives 37 Nigerian returnees from TürkiyeFG begins training of 4,000 tractor operators for mechanisation drive“Overcoming these challenges requires collective action by governments, healthcare workers, employers, development partners, communities and families,” she added.Kachollom said the Federal Government was responding by strengthening the National Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition Strategy, expanding Baby-Friendly Hospital and Community Initiatives, building the capacity of health workers, enforcing regulations on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes, promoting breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and supporting community breastfeeding groups.She explained that the newly launched 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign would improve public awareness, encourage healthy nutrition practices and mobilise families and communities to adopt evidence-based nutrition behaviours during pregnancy, infancy and early childhood.“The campaign promotes improved maternal nutrition, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, continued breastfeeding and stronger community ownership of optimal nutrition practices,” she said.She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. She said this year’s World Breastfeeding Week theme, “Breastfeeding for Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” calls for stronger policies, quality health services, breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and greater community support for mothers.“Breastfeeding is one of the most effective, life-saving and cost-effective interventions for ensuring healthy child survival and development,” Kachollom said.She noted that the first 1,000 days of life—from conception until a child’s second birthday—represent a unique window for shaping a child’s future health and development.According to her, inadequate nutrition during this period can lead to irreversible consequences, including stunting, impaired brain development, weakened immunity and reduced productivity later in life.Kachollom expressed concern that although nearly 95 per cent of Nigerian mothers breastfeed, optimal breastfeeding practices remain far below recommended levels.Quoting findings from the 2023/2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, she said only 36 per cent of newborns are breastfed within one hour of birth, while just 29 per cent of infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months. She added that only 23 per cent of children continue breastfeeding until 24 months.“These figures remind us that much more needs to be done. We must strengthen our collective commitment to ensuring that every child receives the best possible start in life,” she said.She urged Nigerians to embrace the recommendations of the World Health Organisation and UNICEF, including initiating breastfeeding within one hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary feeding up to two years and beyond.The Permanent Secretary identified delayed breastfeeding initiation, harmful cultural beliefs, inadequate counselling, limited workplace support, aggressive marketing of breastmilk substitutes and weak community engagement as major barriers to optimal breastfeeding.Related NewsFG moves to end decades-long water crisis in Plateau LGNEMA receives 37 Nigerian returnees from TürkiyeFG begins training of 4,000 tractor operators for mechanisation drive“Overcoming these challenges requires collective action by governments, healthcare workers, employers, development partners, communities and families,” she added.Kachollom said the Federal Government was responding by strengthening the National Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition Strategy, expanding Baby-Friendly Hospital and Community Initiatives, building the capacity of health workers, enforcing regulations on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes, promoting breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and supporting community breastfeeding groups.She explained that the newly launched 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign would improve public awareness, encourage healthy nutrition practices and mobilise families and communities to adopt evidence-based nutrition behaviours during pregnancy, infancy and early childhood.“The campaign promotes improved maternal nutrition, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, continued breastfeeding and stronger community ownership of optimal nutrition practices,” she said.She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. “Breastfeeding is one of the most effective, life-saving and cost-effective interventions for ensuring healthy child survival and development,” Kachollom said.She noted that the first 1,000 days of life—from conception until a child’s second birthday—represent a unique window for shaping a child’s future health and development.According to her, inadequate nutrition during this period can lead to irreversible consequences, including stunting, impaired brain development, weakened immunity and reduced productivity later in life.Kachollom expressed concern that although nearly 95 per cent of Nigerian mothers breastfeed, optimal breastfeeding practices remain far below recommended levels.Quoting findings from the 2023/2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, she said only 36 per cent of newborns are breastfed within one hour of birth, while just 29 per cent of infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months. She added that only 23 per cent of children continue breastfeeding until 24 months.“These figures remind us that much more needs to be done. We must strengthen our collective commitment to ensuring that every child receives the best possible start in life,” she said.She urged Nigerians to embrace the recommendations of the World Health Organisation and UNICEF, including initiating breastfeeding within one hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary feeding up to two years and beyond.The Permanent Secretary identified delayed breastfeeding initiation, harmful cultural beliefs, inadequate counselling, limited workplace support, aggressive marketing of breastmilk substitutes and weak community engagement as major barriers to optimal breastfeeding.Related NewsFG moves to end decades-long water crisis in Plateau LGNEMA receives 37 Nigerian returnees from TürkiyeFG begins training of 4,000 tractor operators for mechanisation drive“Overcoming these challenges requires collective action by governments, healthcare workers, employers, development partners, communities and families,” she added.Kachollom said the Federal Government was responding by strengthening the National Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition Strategy, expanding Baby-Friendly Hospital and Community Initiatives, building the capacity of health workers, enforcing regulations on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes, promoting breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and supporting community breastfeeding groups.She explained that the newly launched 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign would improve public awareness, encourage healthy nutrition practices and mobilise families and communities to adopt evidence-based nutrition behaviours during pregnancy, infancy and early childhood.“The campaign promotes improved maternal nutrition, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, continued breastfeeding and stronger community ownership of optimal nutrition practices,” she said.She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. She noted that the first 1,000 days of life—from conception until a child’s second birthday—represent a unique window for shaping a child’s future health and development.According to her, inadequate nutrition during this period can lead to irreversible consequences, including stunting, impaired brain development, weakened immunity and reduced productivity later in life.Kachollom expressed concern that although nearly 95 per cent of Nigerian mothers breastfeed, optimal breastfeeding practices remain far below recommended levels.Quoting findings from the 2023/2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, she said only 36 per cent of newborns are breastfed within one hour of birth, while just 29 per cent of infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months. She added that only 23 per cent of children continue breastfeeding until 24 months.“These figures remind us that much more needs to be done. We must strengthen our collective commitment to ensuring that every child receives the best possible start in life,” she said.She urged Nigerians to embrace the recommendations of the World Health Organisation and UNICEF, including initiating breastfeeding within one hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary feeding up to two years and beyond.The Permanent Secretary identified delayed breastfeeding initiation, harmful cultural beliefs, inadequate counselling, limited workplace support, aggressive marketing of breastmilk substitutes and weak community engagement as major barriers to optimal breastfeeding.Related NewsFG moves to end decades-long water crisis in Plateau LGNEMA receives 37 Nigerian returnees from TürkiyeFG begins training of 4,000 tractor operators for mechanisation drive“Overcoming these challenges requires collective action by governments, healthcare workers, employers, development partners, communities and families,” she added.Kachollom said the Federal Government was responding by strengthening the National Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition Strategy, expanding Baby-Friendly Hospital and Community Initiatives, building the capacity of health workers, enforcing regulations on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes, promoting breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and supporting community breastfeeding groups.She explained that the newly launched 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign would improve public awareness, encourage healthy nutrition practices and mobilise families and communities to adopt evidence-based nutrition behaviours during pregnancy, infancy and early childhood.“The campaign promotes improved maternal nutrition, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, continued breastfeeding and stronger community ownership of optimal nutrition practices,” she said.She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. According to her, inadequate nutrition during this period can lead to irreversible consequences, including stunting, impaired brain development, weakened immunity and reduced productivity later in life.Kachollom expressed concern that although nearly 95 per cent of Nigerian mothers breastfeed, optimal breastfeeding practices remain far below recommended levels.Quoting findings from the 2023/2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, she said only 36 per cent of newborns are breastfed within one hour of birth, while just 29 per cent of infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months. She added that only 23 per cent of children continue breastfeeding until 24 months.“These figures remind us that much more needs to be done. We must strengthen our collective commitment to ensuring that every child receives the best possible start in life,” she said.She urged Nigerians to embrace the recommendations of the World Health Organisation and UNICEF, including initiating breastfeeding within one hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary feeding up to two years and beyond.The Permanent Secretary identified delayed breastfeeding initiation, harmful cultural beliefs, inadequate counselling, limited workplace support, aggressive marketing of breastmilk substitutes and weak community engagement as major barriers to optimal breastfeeding.Related NewsFG moves to end decades-long water crisis in Plateau LGNEMA receives 37 Nigerian returnees from TürkiyeFG begins training of 4,000 tractor operators for mechanisation drive“Overcoming these challenges requires collective action by governments, healthcare workers, employers, development partners, communities and families,” she added.Kachollom said the Federal Government was responding by strengthening the National Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition Strategy, expanding Baby-Friendly Hospital and Community Initiatives, building the capacity of health workers, enforcing regulations on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes, promoting breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and supporting community breastfeeding groups.She explained that the newly launched 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign would improve public awareness, encourage healthy nutrition practices and mobilise families and communities to adopt evidence-based nutrition behaviours during pregnancy, infancy and early childhood.“The campaign promotes improved maternal nutrition, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, continued breastfeeding and stronger community ownership of optimal nutrition practices,” she said.She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. Kachollom expressed concern that although nearly 95 per cent of Nigerian mothers breastfeed, optimal breastfeeding practices remain far below recommended levels.Quoting findings from the 2023/2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, she said only 36 per cent of newborns are breastfed within one hour of birth, while just 29 per cent of infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months. She added that only 23 per cent of children continue breastfeeding until 24 months.“These figures remind us that much more needs to be done. We must strengthen our collective commitment to ensuring that every child receives the best possible start in life,” she said.She urged Nigerians to embrace the recommendations of the World Health Organisation and UNICEF, including initiating breastfeeding within one hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary feeding up to two years and beyond.The Permanent Secretary identified delayed breastfeeding initiation, harmful cultural beliefs, inadequate counselling, limited workplace support, aggressive marketing of breastmilk substitutes and weak community engagement as major barriers to optimal breastfeeding.Related NewsFG moves to end decades-long water crisis in Plateau LGNEMA receives 37 Nigerian returnees from TürkiyeFG begins training of 4,000 tractor operators for mechanisation drive“Overcoming these challenges requires collective action by governments, healthcare workers, employers, development partners, communities and families,” she added.Kachollom said the Federal Government was responding by strengthening the National Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition Strategy, expanding Baby-Friendly Hospital and Community Initiatives, building the capacity of health workers, enforcing regulations on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes, promoting breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and supporting community breastfeeding groups.She explained that the newly launched 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign would improve public awareness, encourage healthy nutrition practices and mobilise families and communities to adopt evidence-based nutrition behaviours during pregnancy, infancy and early childhood.“The campaign promotes improved maternal nutrition, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, continued breastfeeding and stronger community ownership of optimal nutrition practices,” she said.She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. Quoting findings from the 2023/2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, she said only 36 per cent of newborns are breastfed within one hour of birth, while just 29 per cent of infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months. She added that only 23 per cent of children continue breastfeeding until 24 months.“These figures remind us that much more needs to be done. We must strengthen our collective commitment to ensuring that every child receives the best possible start in life,” she said.She urged Nigerians to embrace the recommendations of the World Health Organisation and UNICEF, including initiating breastfeeding within one hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary feeding up to two years and beyond.The Permanent Secretary identified delayed breastfeeding initiation, harmful cultural beliefs, inadequate counselling, limited workplace support, aggressive marketing of breastmilk substitutes and weak community engagement as major barriers to optimal breastfeeding.Related NewsFG moves to end decades-long water crisis in Plateau LGNEMA receives 37 Nigerian returnees from TürkiyeFG begins training of 4,000 tractor operators for mechanisation drive“Overcoming these challenges requires collective action by governments, healthcare workers, employers, development partners, communities and families,” she added.Kachollom said the Federal Government was responding by strengthening the National Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition Strategy, expanding Baby-Friendly Hospital and Community Initiatives, building the capacity of health workers, enforcing regulations on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes, promoting breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and supporting community breastfeeding groups.She explained that the newly launched 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign would improve public awareness, encourage healthy nutrition practices and mobilise families and communities to adopt evidence-based nutrition behaviours during pregnancy, infancy and early childhood.“The campaign promotes improved maternal nutrition, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, continued breastfeeding and stronger community ownership of optimal nutrition practices,” she said.She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. “These figures remind us that much more needs to be done. We must strengthen our collective commitment to ensuring that every child receives the best possible start in life,” she said.She urged Nigerians to embrace the recommendations of the World Health Organisation and UNICEF, including initiating breastfeeding within one hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary feeding up to two years and beyond.The Permanent Secretary identified delayed breastfeeding initiation, harmful cultural beliefs, inadequate counselling, limited workplace support, aggressive marketing of breastmilk substitutes and weak community engagement as major barriers to optimal breastfeeding.Related NewsFG moves to end decades-long water crisis in Plateau LGNEMA receives 37 Nigerian returnees from TürkiyeFG begins training of 4,000 tractor operators for mechanisation drive“Overcoming these challenges requires collective action by governments, healthcare workers, employers, development partners, communities and families,” she added.Kachollom said the Federal Government was responding by strengthening the National Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition Strategy, expanding Baby-Friendly Hospital and Community Initiatives, building the capacity of health workers, enforcing regulations on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes, promoting breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and supporting community breastfeeding groups.She explained that the newly launched 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign would improve public awareness, encourage healthy nutrition practices and mobilise families and communities to adopt evidence-based nutrition behaviours during pregnancy, infancy and early childhood.“The campaign promotes improved maternal nutrition, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, continued breastfeeding and stronger community ownership of optimal nutrition practices,” she said.She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. She urged Nigerians to embrace the recommendations of the World Health Organisation and UNICEF, including initiating breastfeeding within one hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary feeding up to two years and beyond.The Permanent Secretary identified delayed breastfeeding initiation, harmful cultural beliefs, inadequate counselling, limited workplace support, aggressive marketing of breastmilk substitutes and weak community engagement as major barriers to optimal breastfeeding.Related NewsFG moves to end decades-long water crisis in Plateau LGNEMA receives 37 Nigerian returnees from TürkiyeFG begins training of 4,000 tractor operators for mechanisation drive“Overcoming these challenges requires collective action by governments, healthcare workers, employers, development partners, communities and families,” she added.Kachollom said the Federal Government was responding by strengthening the National Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition Strategy, expanding Baby-Friendly Hospital and Community Initiatives, building the capacity of health workers, enforcing regulations on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes, promoting breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and supporting community breastfeeding groups.She explained that the newly launched 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign would improve public awareness, encourage healthy nutrition practices and mobilise families and communities to adopt evidence-based nutrition behaviours during pregnancy, infancy and early childhood.“The campaign promotes improved maternal nutrition, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, continued breastfeeding and stronger community ownership of optimal nutrition practices,” she said.She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. The Permanent Secretary identified delayed breastfeeding initiation, harmful cultural beliefs, inadequate counselling, limited workplace support, aggressive marketing of breastmilk substitutes and weak community engagement as major barriers to optimal breastfeeding.Related NewsFG moves to end decades-long water crisis in Plateau LGNEMA receives 37 Nigerian returnees from TürkiyeFG begins training of 4,000 tractor operators for mechanisation drive“Overcoming these challenges requires collective action by governments, healthcare workers, employers, development partners, communities and families,” she added.Kachollom said the Federal Government was responding by strengthening the National Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition Strategy, expanding Baby-Friendly Hospital and Community Initiatives, building the capacity of health workers, enforcing regulations on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes, promoting breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and supporting community breastfeeding groups.She explained that the newly launched 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign would improve public awareness, encourage healthy nutrition practices and mobilise families and communities to adopt evidence-based nutrition behaviours during pregnancy, infancy and early childhood.“The campaign promotes improved maternal nutrition, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, continued breastfeeding and stronger community ownership of optimal nutrition practices,” she said.She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. “Overcoming these challenges requires collective action by governments, healthcare workers, employers, development partners, communities and families,” she added.Kachollom said the Federal Government was responding by strengthening the National Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition Strategy, expanding Baby-Friendly Hospital and Community Initiatives, building the capacity of health workers, enforcing regulations on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes, promoting breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and supporting community breastfeeding groups.She explained that the newly launched 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign would improve public awareness, encourage healthy nutrition practices and mobilise families and communities to adopt evidence-based nutrition behaviours during pregnancy, infancy and early childhood.“The campaign promotes improved maternal nutrition, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, continued breastfeeding and stronger community ownership of optimal nutrition practices,” she said.She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. Kachollom said the Federal Government was responding by strengthening the National Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition Strategy, expanding Baby-Friendly Hospital and Community Initiatives, building the capacity of health workers, enforcing regulations on the marketing of breastmilk substitutes, promoting breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and supporting community breastfeeding groups.She explained that the newly launched 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign would improve public awareness, encourage healthy nutrition practices and mobilise families and communities to adopt evidence-based nutrition behaviours during pregnancy, infancy and early childhood.“The campaign promotes improved maternal nutrition, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, continued breastfeeding and stronger community ownership of optimal nutrition practices,” she said.She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. She explained that the newly launched 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign would improve public awareness, encourage healthy nutrition practices and mobilise families and communities to adopt evidence-based nutrition behaviours during pregnancy, infancy and early childhood.“The campaign promotes improved maternal nutrition, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, continued breastfeeding and stronger community ownership of optimal nutrition practices,” she said.She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. “The campaign promotes improved maternal nutrition, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, continued breastfeeding and stronger community ownership of optimal nutrition practices,” she said.She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. She also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to access antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal care, immunisation and nutrition services through Primary Health Care Centres.Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. Earlier, the Director of the Nutrition Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Olufunmilola Adegbite, said breastfeeding should be seen not only as a health intervention but also as an investment in Nigeria’s future.“Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. “Breastfeeding is not only a health intervention but an investment in education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and national development. A child who receives adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days is more likely to become a healthy, educated and productive adult,” she said.Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Rochas-Anwukah, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who described breastfeeding as one of the most powerful public health interventions available.She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. She said the Vice President had directed that breastfeeding should be treated as a national investment rather than solely a maternal responsibility.“This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. “This is why the Vice President has directed that breastfeeding be treated, not only as a maternal choice, but as a national investment. A breastfed child is a healthier child. A breastfed child is a smarter child. A breastfed child is a more productive citizen in waiting,” she said.Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household. Rochas-Anwukah added that the Office of the Vice President welcomed the launch of the campaign and urged stakeholders to ensure it reaches all 774 local government areas, every ward, primary healthcare centre and household.