By Abdul Kareem

To enhance nutrition awareness and support within Borno State, the Civil Society Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN) has launched an impactful advocacy campaign. This initiative has made notable strides in engaging key stakeholders and emphasizing the critical need for extended paid maternity leave for workers, despite initial skepticism from some government officials.

In a collaborative move to bolster nutrition advocacy, the Borno State Primary Health Care Development Board (PHCDB) has teamed up with CS-SUNN. This partnership highlights the collective efforts of various sectors to address nutritional challenges.

The Director of Nutrition at PHCDB, Fati Ali, during a meeting with the CS-SUNN team, underscored the vital role that statewide nutrition policies play in reducing malnutrition among infants. She expressed her appreciation for CS-SUNN’s support, reinforcing the board’s previous proposals to the state legislative assembly regarding this matter.

“As an organization deeply involved in healthcare delivery at the grassroots level, we recognize the importance of adequate breastfeeding as a fundamental aspect of a child’s well-being. Consequently, we advocate for a policy that promotes extended maternity leave for nursing mothers. With the added support from civil society, we are optimistic that our message will resonate with those in authority, ensuring fast-track implementation,” Mrs Ali stated.

This partnership is dedicated to improving nutrition support programs and increasing awareness about the advantages of exclusive breastfeeding. Together, CS-SUNN and PHCDB are committed to enhancing the health outcomes of mothers and children in Borno State.