Medical professionals in Lagos have called for stronger support systems for nursing mothers to improve breastfeeding rates and promote healthy child development. The experts made the call at a programme organised by Alimosho General Hospital to mark the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week, themed “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works.”
Prof. Elizabeth Disu of Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) said exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months provides infants with essential nutrients for healthy growth and survival. She urged healthcare institutions to maintain baby-friendly initiatives and ensure mothers receive adequate support, while also calling for continued enforcement of regulations governing the marketing of breastmilk substitutes.
Consultant Paediatrician Dr Temitope Adegboyega said workplaces and other institutions should create conditions that enable mothers to breastfeed exclusively for six months and continue breastfeeding for up to two years. He stressed that breast milk alone becomes insufficient after six months, making appropriate complementary feeding essential to prevent malnutrition and support healthy growth.
Dietitian Mrs Oludayo Sowoolu-Coates urged expectant mothers to plan for exclusive breastfeeding during pregnancy, dismissing the misconception that babies need additional water during their first six months. She said breast milk contains the water and nutrients infants need at that stage and called for greater support from families, workplaces and communities to help mothers sustain recommended breastfeeding practices.
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