The Enugu State Governor’s wife, Mrs. Monica Ugochi Ugwuanyi has listed the negative consequences of inadequate breastfeeding on malnourished children, especially when they become adults, to include stunting and likely suffering of chronic diseases – making populations vulnerable to pandemics such as the novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) currently ravaging the world.

Speaking to Enugu State residents, otherwise referred to Ndi Enugu in a viral video, Mrs. Monica Ugochi Ugwuanyi also harped on the importance of early initiation of breastfeeding of children within the first one hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for six months and introduction of solid food as complementary feeding and continuous breastfeeding for two years of age or beyond.

According to her, breast milk contains antibodies that help babies fight viruses and bacteria, lowers their (babies’) risk of having asthma or allergies, provides the ideal nutrition for the babies and makes them smarter, adding that babies who are exclusively breastfed for six months without a formula have fewer ear infections, respiratory illness and diarrhea.

Mrs. Ugwuanyi called on mothers, fathers and wives of the Local Government Chairmen in the state to join her “in this renewed call for appropriate feeding as one pathway to mitigate environmental degradation that starts with correct breastfeeding”.

“A warm chain of support from us all will create an enabling environment that empowers all mothers to breastfeed optimally for a healthier planet. I pledge to bridge the gap for the survival of our children”, Mrs. Ugwuanyi said.