The President of the Paediatric Association of Nigeria (PAN), Prof. Petronila Tabansi, has called for the revival of baby-friendly hospital initiatives, the full implementation of six-month paid maternity leave, and stricter enforcement of regulations on breast milk substitutes to improve exclusive breastfeeding in the country.
Speaking ahead of the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week, Tabansi said Nigeria must strengthen existing breastfeeding interventions rather than introduce new ones, noting that the country already has policies capable of improving child nutrition and survival.
She said this year’s theme, “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” underscores the need to reinforce interventions that have consistently delivered positive results.
According to her, breastfeeding remains one of the most cost-effective nutritional interventions, with long-term health, economic and environmental benefits.
“The cost of not breastfeeding is enormous. Investing in breastfeeding improves human capital development and contributes to national productivity,” she said.
Tabansi identified antenatal
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