Anambra State First Lady Nonye Soludo has urged expectant and nursing mothers to embrace exclusive breastfeeding during their babies’ first six months.
According to Punch, Soludo made the appeal in a statement issued in Awka on Monday to mark World Breastfeeding Week 2026.
She described breastfeeding as a priceless gift that supports healthy development, strengthens a baby’s immunity and deepens the bond between mother and child.
Soludo, who founded Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo, said every child deserved the healthiest possible beginning in life.
She explained that proper breastfeeding remained one of the most effective ways to provide that healthy start.
“Every child deserves the healthiest possible start in life, and one of the most powerful ways to make that happen is through quality breastfeeding,” she said.
The governor’s wife also praised mothers who continue to make personal sacrifices to nurture and protect their children.
Exclusive breastfeeding recommended for six months
Soludo encouraged mothers to feed their babies only breast milk during the first six months, in line with guidance from health experts.
She advised mothers against giving their babies water, herbal mixtures, other liquids or solid food during the period.
“No water, herbal mixtures or other foods are needed during this period,” she said.
Soludo explained that breast milk provides the nutrients babies require for healthy growth during their early months.
She added that exclusive breastfeeding could help protect children from infections while reducing childhood illnesses and preventable deaths.
“Breastfeeding is a priceless gift that promotes healthy growth, strengthens immunity and creates a lasting bond between mother and baby,” she said.
She urged expectant mothers to seek reliable information before childbirth and prepare adequately for breastfeeding.
World Breastfeeding Week promotes stronger support
World Breastfeeding Week is observed globally from August 1 to 7 to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding.
The 2026 campaign has the theme, “Breastfeeding for a sustainable start in life: strengthen what works.”
This year’s campaign focuses on identifying successful breastfeeding programmes, evaluating their impact and expanding effective support for mothers.
The World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action coordinates the annual campaign alongside the World Health Organisation, UNICEF and other partners.
The initiative also examines how breastfeeding contributes to better nutrition, food security and poverty reduction.
It encourages governments, healthcare providers, workplaces, communities and families to create conditions that make breastfeeding easier for mothers.
Anambra pledges continued support for mothers
Soludo said Anambra State would continue educating and supporting mothers through its maternal and child health programmes.
She added that the Healthy Living initiative would strengthen its advocacy for proper nutrition and healthier families.
“Through our Healthy Living advocacy and the many maternal and child health programmes of the state government, we will continue to champion awareness, education and support for mothers and families,” she said.
Soludo noted that mothers require accurate information, encouragement and practical assistance to breastfeed confidently.
She said the state’s goal was to create an environment where every mother felt empowered and every child received an opportunity to thrive.
“We are building an Anambra where every mother is empowered to breastfeed with confidence, and every child is given the opportunity to thrive from the very beginning,” she added.
The governor’s wife called on husbands, relatives, employers and community leaders to provide mothers with the support needed to breastfeed successfully.
