Kano State Government has organized a special enlightenment program for pregnant women to promote the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a child’s life without the addition of water.
The initiative, held at the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital in Kano metropolis, was coordinated by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, under the directive of the Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf.
More than 300 pregnant women participated in the awareness session.
Commissioner Waiya said the program reflects Governor Yusuf’s commitment to improving maternal and child health across the state.
He noted that the government continues to invest in healthcare infrastructure, services, and advocacy to enhance the well-being of mothers and children.
He stressed the need to intensify public sensitization on the health benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, urging pregnant women to attend regular antenatal clinics and, upon delivery, to feed their babies only breast milk for at least six months.
“Breast milk contains about 70 percent water, in addition to essential nutrients and antibodies that protect babies from infections,” he explained.
He warned that giving water to infants at an early stage could expose them to illnesses that are otherwise preventable.
“There is a clear difference in the health and development of babies who are exclusively breastfed and those who are given water or other supplements,” he added.
The Commissioner also appealed to fathers to support their spouses in practising exclusive breastfeeding, noting that it not only strengthens the health of babies but also reduces the financial burden of purchasing infant formula.
Representing the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, at the event, Dan Kadan Kano, Dr. Bashir Ibrahim Muhammad, commended the state government for prioritizing the health of its citizens under Governor Yusuf’s administration.
He encouraged pregnant women to eat balanced meals for their own well-being and that of their unborn babies and to adhere to regular antenatal care.
The program was attended by representatives of the Kano State Ministry of Health, officials of Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, medical professionals, and other stakeholders in the healthcare sector.
