07/08/2025
MAUTH Commemorates World Breastfeeding Week 2025
Theme: “Prioritize Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems”
Yola, August 7, 2025 — The Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital (MAUTH), Yola, joined the global community in commemorating World Breastfeeding Week 2025 with a week-long sensitization campaign held from August 1st to 7th at the hospital’s Public Health Unit.
This year’s theme, “Prioritize Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems,” emphasized the importance of building strong, sustainable support structures for breastfeeding mothers across homes, workplaces, communities, and healthcare systems.
The event was hosted by the Department of Paediatrics and the Public Health Unit of the hospital, and was led by the First Lady of Adamawa State, Her Excellency Hajiya Lami Fintiri, in collaboration with the Adamawa State Ministry of Health, the Adamawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ADSPHCDA), and nutrition partners.
Speaking during the event, Dr. Wasinda Bulus, Consultant Paediatrician, described breastfeeding as a public health responsibility, noting its immense benefits. She explained that breastfed infants enjoy stronger immunity and lower risks of illnesses like diarrhea, and respiratory infections. It also supports cognitive development and reduces the risk of chronic conditions.
For mothers, breastfeeding aids postpartum recovery, reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, supports cardiovascular health, and fosters mother-child bonding. Dr. Bulus also cited Nigeria’s civil service policies that provide 6 months of paid maternity leave, two hours of daily breastfeeding breaks, and 14 days of paternity leave for fathers.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Suleiman Abdul, Public Health Coordinator at MAUTH, appreciated all stakeholders and partners for making the event a success. He urged continued advocacy and action:
“This year’s theme he noted is more than a slogan—it’s a call to action. We all have a role to play in ensuring mothers are supported, children are nourished, and communities are empowered.”
The event concluded with the distribution of gift items and baby care packages to breastfeeding mothers as tokens of encouragement and appreciation. The atmosphere was filled with gratitude and smiles as mothers received their gifts.