By Oyem Jonathan
The wife of the Executive Chairman of Aniocha South Local Government Council, Mrs. Ella Jude Chukwunwike has commended healthcare professionals across the council for their unwavering commitment to improving maternal, newborn and child health outcomes, while urging nursing mothers to embrace exclusive breastfeeding as the safest and most effective nutritional foundation for the healthy growth and development of infants.
Mrs Chukwunwike described breastfeeding as one of the greatest investments parents can make in securing the health, survival and future of every child, noting that optimal breastfeeding practices significantly reduce infant morbidity and mortality while promoting cognitive development, stronger immunity and overall wellbeing.
She made the remarks on Thursday during the flag-off of the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week celebration held at the Council Secretariat, Ogwashi-Uku.
Represented by the Vice Chairman of the Council, Hon Patricia Ekwutozam Adolue , Mrs. Chukwunwike encouraged mothers to make exclusive breastfeeding a priority during the first six months of a child’s life, in line with the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO) and other global health authorities.
She emphasized that breast milk remains the ideal source of nutrition for infants, providing all the essential nutrients, antibodies and protective factors required for healthy growth and development.
According to her, children who are exclusively breastfed generally develop stronger immune systems, enjoy better physical and cognitive development, and face a lower risk of common childhood illnesses than those who are predominantly fed with commercial infant formula.
Mrs. Chukwunwike applauded healthcare providers, community health workers and frontline caregivers for their dedication to maternal and child healthcare services, describing them as indispensable partners in promoting safe motherhood, improving infant nutrition and strengthening family health across Aniocha South.
She further called on mothers, families, community leaders and employers to create a supportive environment that enables breastfeeding mothers to practice exclusive breastfeeding successfully. Investing in breastfeeding, she stressed, is an investment in healthier families, stronger communities and a more productive society.
The ceremony featured several activities designed to promote breastfeeding awareness and celebrate those making remarkable contributions to maternal and child health. Highlights of the flag-off included the presentation of gifts to nursing mothers, a colourful baby show, nutrition demonstrations, and the recognition of breastfeeding champions for their outstanding dedication to promoting exclusive breastfeeding and improving child nutrition across the local government.
A main event was the official recognition of Mrs. Ella Chukwunwike as a Breastfeeding Advocate. She was presented with a Certificate of Recognition in appreciation of her commitment, steadfastness and unwavering resolve in championing the health needs and welfare of mothers and children in Aniocha South Local Government Area. The honour underscored her consistent advocacy for improved maternal and child healthcare, particularly her support for initiatives that promote exclusive breastfeeding as a vital strategy for reducing infant mortality and raising healthier children.
The 2026 World Breastfeeding Week celebration brought together healthcare professionals, nursing mothers, traditional birth attendants, community health workers and other stakeholders to reinforce awareness of the life-saving benefits of exclusive breastfeeding and the shared responsibility of protecting the health and wellbeing of mothers and children.
Dignitaries present at the event included the Supervisory Councillor for Health, Chief Austine Unorchei ; the Supervisory Councilor for Education, Comrade Victor Dike,the Executive Secretary, Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Awele Nwaochei; health officials, Women Development officer of the council, Mrs Perpetual Oputa Olisa Obichie,as well as community health workers and other stakeholders in the healthcare sector.
