KWSG Promotes Exclusive Breastfeeding, Launches Zero Water Campaign for Infants

The Kwara State Government has reiterated the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for infants during their first six months of life, urging mothers to give only breast milk without water or any other liquid to ensure optimal growth, healthy development and protection against preventable diseases.

The Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KWSPHCDA), Prof. Nusirat Elelu, stated this on Monday during a press briefing held at the Agency’s Conference Hall, Fate, Ilorin, to commemorate the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week.

Prof. Elelu explained that World Breastfeeding Week, observed annually from August 1 to 7, is a global campaign aimed at promoting breastfeeding as the foundation for a healthy and sustainable start to life for every child.

She commended the Kwara State Government for its remarkable strides in promoting exclusive breastfeeding, particularly Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s approval of the six-month maternity leave policy. 

She also noted that crèches are being established across several Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), creating a more supportive environment for nursing mothers while improving childcare.

Speaking on this year’s campaign, Prof. Elelu announced the Agency’s renewed advocacy for the Zero Water Campaign, stressing that infants below six months require only breast milk.

“While we celebrate these achievements, we are also promoting the Zero Water Campaign. This campaign is vital because a critical misconception persists, the belief that babies under six months need additional water. Mothers should give only breast milk without water because breast milk contains about 88 per cent water and provides all the hydration, nutrients and minerals a baby needs during the first six months of life," she said.

She warned that introducing water or any other liquid before six months could expose infants to contaminants, thereby increasing the risk of diarrhoea and other preventable childhood illnesses.

The Executive Secretary also disclosed that the Kwara State Government has made Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) available free of charge at all Primary Health Care facilities across the 16 Local Government Areas for registered pregnant women.

According to her, over 14,423 pregnant women have benefited from the programme this year alone.

“To support maternal nutrition and the health of our unborn children, I am pleased to announce that all pregnant women in Kwara State are entitled to receive free Multiple Micronutrient Supplements at all our Primary Health Care Centres. This vital intervention helps prevent maternal malnutrition, anaemia in pregnancy, as well as preterm and low birth weight deliveries.

“A well-nourished mother produces the best quality breast milk for her child. I therefore encourage every expectant mother to visit the nearest Primary Health Care facility to register, access free supplements and benefit from other maternal healthcare services available,” she added.

Prof. Elelu assured residents that healthcare workers across Primary Health Care facilities in the state remain committed to providing quality maternal and child healthcare services.

She expressed profound appreciation to UNICEF and Vitamin Angels for their invaluable support in advancing maternal, newborn and child health programmes in Kwara State, noting that their partnership has significantly strengthened access to essential health and nutrition services.

The Executive Secretary also acknowledged the unwavering commitment of the First Lady of Kwara State, Prof. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, to championing exclusive breastfeeding and promoting healthier lifestyles for women and children across the state.

Highlighting activities lined up for the week-long commemoration, Prof. Elelu said the Agency would intensify community sensitisation through advocacy visits to key stakeholders to encourage the establishment of more crèches and breastfeeding corners in both public and private workplaces across the state.

She further called on families, communities and, particularly, husbands to provide the necessary support for pregnant women and nursing mothers, stressing that collective action is essential to the success of the campaign and the overall well-being of mothers and children.

Bukola Abdulganiyu,

Press Secretary 

KWSPHCDA

07069144440