Only 35.5% of Nigerian Newborns Breastfed in First Hour – UNICEF
Only 35.5 per cent of Nigerian newborns are breastfed within the first hour of birth, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
The UNICEF Chief of Maiduguri Field Office, Francis Busiku, made this known on Saturday during the flag-off ceremony of the 2025 World Breastfeeding Week in Maiduguri. He also revealed that just 28.8 per cent of babies in Nigeria are exclusively breastfed.
Speaking at the event, Busiku highlighted this year’s theme, “Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support System,” which underscores the urgent need to provide women—especially those in rural and conflict-affected areas—with sustainable support systems that enable successful breastfeeding.
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He raised concerns over the increasing use of breast milk substitutes and the risks posed by unsafe water sources, which, he warned, could jeopardize the health of infants.
“The use of breast milk substitutes and unsafe water in our communities can pose serious risks to the health of infants,” he said. “It is therefore critical that the state enacts, enforces, and monitors the International Code of Marketing of Breast milk Substitutes to protect children and promote breastfeeding.”
Busiku reiterated that breast milk alone provides all the essential nutrients babies need in their first six months and offers protection from various illnesses.
He urged the Borno State Government and other stakeholders to reinforce maternal protection policies, increase funding for maternal and child health, revive baby-friendly initiatives, and prioritise community-based nutrition programs.
“Together, through strategic partnerships, innovative approaches, and sustained commitment, we can transform breastfeeding practices across Borno State,” he added. “UNICEF remains steadfast in its support to the government and partners in this vital vision.”
