The Health Writers’ Association of Nigeria (HEWAN) has joined global stakeholders in commemorating the 2025 World Breastfeeding Week (WBW), which runs from August 1 to 7. With the theme “Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems,” this year’s observance highlights the critical need for long-term structures that enable and sustain breastfeeding practices across communities.
Since its inception in 1992, World Breastfeeding Week has served as a global platform to promote awareness, advocacy, and policy engagement around the importance of breastfeeding for maternal and child health.
In a statement signed by its President, Vivian Ihechu, HEWAN reiterated its commitment to the campaign, calling on stakeholders across sectors to take urgent and coordinated action to create environments that support breastfeeding.
“Breastfeeding is more than a personal choice; it is a public health imperative. As health writers, we recognise the importance of consistent, science-based messaging and policies that enable mothers to breastfeed without barriers. Supporting breastfeeding is supporting life, health, and the future of our children,” she stated.
She disclosed that despite widespread awareness of breastfeeding’s benefits, Nigeria continues to struggle with low exclusive breastfeeding rates. According to the 2023 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (DHS), many mothers are aware of the importance of breastfeeding, but cultural norms, workplace challenges, and insufficient healthcare support hinder optimal practice.
The association pointed out that breastfeeding reduces infant mortality, supports cognitive development, and protects against common childhood illnesses, making it essential to national health outcomes.
HEWAN called on policymakers to implement and enforce robust maternity protection laws, including paid maternity leave and mandated breastfeeding breaks. The group also urged employers to create breastfeeding-friendly workplaces by providing lactation rooms and flexible schedules that accommodate nursing mothers.
In addition, HEWAN appealed to healthcare professionals to provide accurate and sustained breastfeeding support from pregnancy through early childhood. Community leaders and families were encouraged to foster stigma-free environments where breastfeeding is accepted and celebrated.
The media, HEWAN said, must continue to amplify evidence-based information and showcase success stories that inspire societal change. “World Breastfeeding Week 2025 is not just a moment, it’s a movement. Together, we can build systems that sustain breastfeeding, safeguard the wellbeing of mothers and children, and invest in a healthier, more equitable future.
“We remain committed to improving health literacy and promoting better health outcomes in Nigeria through accurate and timely health reporting. We also work closely with health experts, government officials, and development partners to drive forward the nation’s public health agenda,” Ihechu stated.
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