By Vasty Bala Jonah, Gombe

As the increasing concern to enhance the inadequate culture of exclusive breastfeeding among nursing mothers in Gombe state continues, a father of two named Muhammad has urged his peers to assist their lactating spouses in any way they can to promote exclusive breastfeeding for their babies.

In an interview, Muhammad, who is a fruit vendor at Tumfure Market in Gombe, shared that his children, aged three years and one year nine months, were exclusively breastfed during their initial six months of life.

This fruit seller, who has completed secondary school and received Islamic education, along with his wife, who has primary and Islamic education, successfully breastfed their children without supplementing with water for the designated period, proudly noting that his children appear strong and healthy.

Muhammad, who wraps up his business around 10:00 PM each night, explained that he does not start work early due to his commitment to assist his wife at home and ensure she has the necessary nutrition while breastfeeding.

Regarding immunization, Muhammad stated that all of his children received vaccinations from birth, emphasizing that he sees no reason to resist immunization since he himself was vaccinated and believes that if there were any negative effects, the government would not permit it to be administered to its citizens.

He added that even when he is not available, his wife is encouraged to take their children for immunization during house-to-house campaigns.

Having experienced the advantages of exclusive breastfeeding firsthand, Muhammad implored fathers and husbands to motivate and support their wives during breastfeeding, acknowledging that motherhood can be tasking for women, but with support from all sides, lactating mothers can navigate this phase with ease.

In alignment with UNICEF Bauchi Field Office’s initiative to enhance the poor culture of exclusive breastfeeding among nursing mothers across Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Taraba, and Plateau states, Muhammad also called for increased awareness to help people comprehend the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding and immunization.

The latest MICS report indicated that approximately 30.7 percent of women in the state are practicing exclusive breastfeeding, a figure that is indeed quite low.

As noted by UNICEF Nutrition Specialist Philomena Irene, fathers and husbands play crucial roles in ensuring their lactating wives exclusively breastfeed their infants during the vital first six months of life.