The Lagos State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) joins global health advocates to mark World Breastfeeding Week, bringing attention to the fundamental connection between a mother’s dietary well-being, home support systems, and successful infant nursing.
Aligning with this year’s global theme, “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All,” NAWOJ Lagos highlights that a mother’s capacity to feed her infant depends directly on how well her own physical and emotional needs are met. Exclusive breastfeeding requires accessible, nutrient-dense local foods, adequate rest, and active assistance from immediate family and local healthcare networks.
Adapting this vision for the State, NAWOJ Lagos underscores the unique realities women face balancing household responsibilities and child nurturing. The association advocates for expanded community education on cost-effective, locally sourced foods that enhance lactation, alongside greater empathy from families to lighten the physical demands on nursing mothers.
“To maintain an ongoing dialogue throughout the season, NAWOJ Lagos designates August as the “NAWOJ Lagos Breastfeeding Awareness Month” says Jumoke Falayi Johnson, NAWOJ Lagos Chairperson.
Over the coming weeks, the association will produce and distribute original reporting, expert commentary, and educational features across broadcast, print, and digital outlets to spotlight maternal dietary health and early childhood wellness.
Commemorating Breastfeeding Week, Johnson further stressed the importance of uplifting the caregiver,
”A mother cannot sustain her child’s health if her own body lacks basic nutrients and rest. Real support requires that families and neighborhood health centers actively look after the mother’s diet, peace of mind, and physical strength. Breastfeeding should be a shared effort within the home, not an isolating burden.”
During August, NAWOJ Lagos will focus on practical ways to nourish the mother so she can, in turn, give her child a healthy start.
NAWOJ Lagos calls on primary healthcare providers, local leaders, non-governmental organizations, and household members across Lagos State to prioritize maternal nutrition and build supportive environments that foster long-term mother and child hhealth
