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Summary
Abia State plans to introduce six months of paid maternity leave and three weeks of paternity leave as part of efforts to support families and promote exclusive breastfeeding
The Abia State Government is considering a landmark policy to grant six months of paid maternity leave to nursing mothers and three weeks of paternity leave to fathers.
The governor’s wife, Ms Priscilla Otti, revealed this during the 2025 World Breastfeeding Week celebration held at the Abia State Children’s Specialist Hospital, Umuahia.
Ms Priscilla stated that the proposed policy is part of broader efforts to create mother-friendly workplace environments and promote exclusive breastfeeding. She emphasised the importance of parental presence during early childhood, saying:
“We are working on ensuring that nursing mothers get six months of paid maternity leave, and fathers whose wives give birth may get three weeks. This is not just about health, it’s about building stronger families.”
As part of the initiative, Ms Priscilla Otti commissioned a newly renovated and furnished crèche at the High Court Complex, Umuahia, and announced that another is being developed at the State Secretariat in Ogurube Layout. She also distributed baby care items, including diapers, to nursing mothers present at the event, showing the government’s support for families.
The theme of this year’s World Breastfeeding Week, “Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems,” aligns with the state’s commitment to improving maternal and child health outcomes. Ms Priscilla described breastfeeding as vital for both infant nutrition and environmental sustainability.
Also speaking, the state’s Commissioner for Health, Professor Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, underscored the nutritional value of breast milk, noting that it provides all essential nutrients for infants from birth.
The maternity and paternity leave policy is expected to be formalised pending official approval.
