
Lactating women in Bauchi State have reported difficulties maintaining a balanced diet necessary for exclusive breastfeeding due to rising food costs. This issue was highlighted during interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria as part of the 2024 World Breastfeeding Week, which aims to raise awareness about exclusive breastfeeding.
Many mothers expressed concerns that the current economic conditions are preventing them from accessing nutrient-dense foods essential for breastfeeding. Mrs. Nuratu Maigari, a 28-year-old mother of a three-month-old baby, explained, “I fear that this age-long tradition of breastfeeding a baby exclusively for six months may not continue due to the present economic hardship.” She noted that breastfeeding a baby requires a diet rich in meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, and vegetables, which has become unaffordable.
Another mother, Mrs. Jamila Usman, shared her struggles, saying, “We cannot afford daily meals, and I will have to start introducing water for my baby. I cannot maintain exclusive breastfeeding as advised during my antenatal visits.”
First-time mother Asabe Umar also voiced her concerns, stating, “My baby is just two months old. My husband is the sole provider, and it has been challenging to afford the recommended foods like meat, eggs, and beans.”
In contrast, Mrs. Talatu Mahmoud has taken proactive steps by using gardening techniques to supplement her diet. “I planted vegetables such as ‘Ugu’, bitter leaf, water leaf, moringa, and tomatoes to ensure I have some nutritious food despite limited resources,” she said.
Mr. Abdurrazak Shehu, the officer in charge of the Federal Low-Cost Primary Health Centre, reported that despite economic challenges, efforts to promote exclusive breastfeeding continue. The center recorded 31 exclusively breastfed babies in June 2024 and 40 in July, reflecting ongoing adherence to breastfeeding campaigns.