Makinde’s wife advocates friendly public spaces for breastfeeding

To promote exclusive breastfeeding, the wife of the Oyo State Governor, Mrs. Tamunominini Makinde, has advocated for public spaces to be more accommodating for nursing mothers.

Specifically, she called for the establishment of crèches and breastfeeding rooms in public areas to create a conducive environment for mothers.

These facilities, she noted, would make nursing mothers feel comfortable and confident to breastfeed their babies at any time. Mrs. Makinde made this appeal during an event held at the Akinyele Local Government Secretariat in Ibadan to mark World Breastfeeding Week.

She emphasized that breastfeeding reduces the risk of infant mortality, promotes bonding between mothers and their children, and enhances the cognitive development of babies.

The wife of the Oyo State Governor further called for the enhancement of nursing mothers’ rights and the promotion of exclusive breastfeeding in the state, highlighting its numerous benefits for both mothers and babies.

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“We must create a society where nursing mothers are supported and empowered to breastfeed their babies without fear of stigma or discrimination,” she said.

“Breast milk is the best gift we can give our children, and we must do everything possible to promote and support breastfeeding.

We need to make our public spaces friendly to nursing mothers, so they can feel comfortable and confident breastfeeding their babies.”

Also speaking at the event, the Director of Nutrition at the Oyo Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Khadeejah Alarape, advised nursing mothers on the importance of maintaining a healthy diet.

She assured that the state government would continue to support initiatives that promote breastfeeding and improve maternal and child health.

The event also featured a breastfeeding awareness walk, with participants including healthcare professionals, nursing mothers, and stakeholders in the health sector.

Nursing mothers in attendance were given food items and cash, courtesy of the Governor’s wife.