The Federal Government has launched the 1,000 Days of Life Social and Behaviour Change Campaign as part of measures to address child malnutrition and improve maternal and child health outcomes nationwide.
The initiative was unveiled on Monday in Abuja during the commemoration of the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week. It aims to promote improved nutrition practices from pregnancy through a child’s second birthday—a critical period experts identify as essential for physical growth, brain development and long-term wellbeing.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding, describing it as one of the most effective and affordable interventions for improving child survival.
Kachollom said the theme of this year’s World Breastfeeding Week, “Breastfeeding for Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” highlights the need for stronger policies, quality healthcare services, breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and increased community support for mothers.
“Breastfeeding is one of the most effective, life-saving and cost-effective interventions for ensuring healthy child survival and development,” she said.
She explained that the first 1,000 days of life, from conception to a child’s second birthday, provide a crucial opportunity to influence a child’s future health and development.
According to her, poor nutrition during this period can result in lasting effects, including stunted growth, impaired brain development, weakened immunity and reduced productivity in later years.
The Permanent Secretary expressed concern that despite the fact that about 95 per cent of Nigerian mothers initiate breastfeeding, recommended breastfeeding practices remain low.
Citing the 2023/2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, she revealed that only 36 per cent of newborns are breastfed within the first hour of birth, while 29 per cent of infants receive exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. She added that only 23 per cent of children continue breastfeeding up to 24 months.
“These figures remind us that much more needs to be done. We must strengthen our collective commitment to ensuring that every child receives the best possible start in life,” she said.
Kachollom urged Nigerians to adopt the recommendations of the World Health Organisation and UNICEF, including early initiation of breastfeeding within one hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, and continued breastfeeding alongside suitable complementary feeding until two years and beyond.
