By Fatima Saka
Abuja, Nigeria — A Civil Society Organisation, Civil Society Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN), has called on Nigerian women to adopt proper breastfeeding practices to improve child survival and overall wellbeing, as the country joined the global community to commemorate the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) and the launch of the First 1,000 Days of Life initiative.
The call was made during the WBW 2026 flag-off ceremony on Monday in Abuja, where the Executive Secretary of CS-SUNN, Mr. Sunday Okoronkwo, represented by the Programme Manager, Mr. Ridwan Awosanya, delivered a goodwill message.
Speaking on the theme, “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” Okoronkwo emphasised that breastfeeding remains a critical intervention for maternal and child health, as well as a foundation for national development.
He noted that breastfeeding goes beyond nutrition, describing it as essential to human capital development, stronger communities, and sustained national prosperity.
“This annual observance is a powerful reminder that breastfeeding is not only a maternal and child health intervention but a foundation for progressive communities and national growth. Investing in breastfeeding is investing in Nigeria’s future,” he said.
CS-SUNN urged governments at all levels, the private sector, employers, communities, families, and development partners to strengthen policies and support systems that enable mothers to initiate early breastfeeding, practice exclusive breastfeeding, and continue in line with global recommendations.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to advancing evidence-based advocacy, mobilising communities, and fostering multi-sectoral partnerships to improve maternal, infant, and young child nutrition outcomes across the country.
Okoronkwo stressed the importance of collective action, calling on stakeholders to translate commitments into tangible support for mothers and children.
“Together, let us transform our shared commitment into meaningful action so that every child has the healthiest possible start in life and every mother receives the support she deserves,” he added.
READ ALSO: MURIC Hails Oloyede, Slams Claims of Lack of Competent Muslims for Public Office
97% of Nigeria’s Ambassadorial Nominees Accepted by Host Countries — FG
CS-SUNN also commended the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare for its leadership in promoting nutrition initiatives and appreciated development partners and stakeholders for their continued efforts in improving health outcomes and saving lives.
World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated annually to raise awareness on the importance of breastfeeding and to galvanise action on improving maternal and child health globally.
About The Author
