MWAN Edo Aligns with WHO on Key Actions to Protect and Promote Breastfeeding

As part of the global commemoration of World Breastfeeding Week 2025, the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Edo State Chapter, is amplifying the call for urgent government action to support breastfeeding as a cornerstone of child survival, maternal health, and sustainable development. In alignment with the World Health Organization (WHO), MWAN Edo emphasizes the need for dedicated government funding, robust maternity protections, and strict enforcement of the WHO Code to protect families from undue commercial pressures. Through advocacy and action, MWAN Edo reaffirms her commitment to investing in the future—one breastfed baby at a time.

Key actions for governments

MWAN Edo stands with WHO on the below actions expected from Government:

• Invest in the future. Allocate dedicated funding for breastfeeding support, including by ensuring all mothers have access to skilled breastfeeding support in hospital and when they take their babies home, alongside robust maternity protections like paid 6 months maternity, paternity leave, baby friendly working hours on resumption to work after maternity leave.
• Implement the WHO Code. Fully adopt and enforce the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes to safeguard public health.
• Lead by example. Champion investment in breastfeeding in national and State health strategies and ensure accountability through legislation, regulation and monitoring impact of breastfeeding programmes.
• Put babies before bottom lines. Enact and enforce policies that protect breastfeeding and prevent commercial influence over infant feeding.

Dr Ugbeni Henrietta
PRO

Dr Irene Irenosen Akhideno
President, MWAN Edo
2023-2025 biennium