The Nasarawa State Office of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on Wednesday set up a 15-member multi-sectoral committee to regulate the marketing of breast milk substitutes.

Speaking at the inauguration in Lafia, the State Coordinator and Chairman of the committee, Mr. Anga Emmanuel, said the development was in compliance with the directive of the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye.
Emmanuel explained that the initiative was aimed at promoting breastfeeding and regulating the marketing of breast milk substitutes in the state.

“The committee’s primary objective is to ensure compliance with the International Code of Marketing of Breast Milk Substitutes and national regulations.

“We inaugurated this committee to demonstrate our commitment to enforcing regulations and promoting breastfeeding practices,” he said.

Emmanuel emphasised the importance of promoting optimal breastfeeding practices, citing the numerous health benefits for mothers and children.

He added that the breast milk substitutes were not to be advertised on any platform or sold indiscriminately unless on recommendation by a doctor, because of the situation of the mother after birth.

Also speaking, Mrs Blessing Abel, Principal Regulatory and Desk Officer for breast milk substitute in NAFDAC, said breast milk provides essential nutrients and immune support for infants, promoting healthy growth and development.
She explained that breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast cancer, cardiovascular issues, and metabolic diseases in mothers.

The desk officer added that breast milk contains hormones and bioactive substances that support cognitive and psychosocial development in infants.

“Breast milk is highly nutritional, and the substitute should only be given to children when the mother is sick or has unfortunately died after giving birth.

She encouraged mothers to give their children breast milk within 30 minutes to one hour after birth for proper development of the child.

“Mothers should also give their children breast milk exclusively for six months because of its health benefits to both of them,” she added.

The committee comprises stakeholders from NAFDAC, state ministries for Health, Information, Women Affairs, Media, State Nutrition Officer, Primary Healthcare and Development Agency, Department of State Services, among others.