Abuja: The Citizens’ Health Education and Development Initiative (CHEDI) has empowered over 150 women in the FCT with life-saving knowledge on breastfeeding practices.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the initiative was part of activities to mark the 2025 World Breastfeeding Week.

The one-day sensitisation and advocacy programme, held at the Kuchiko Primary Healthcare Centre in Bwari Area Council on Wednesday, brought together pregnant women and nursing mothers for a community-based engagement. The theme of the event was, ‘Building Healthcare Systems that Truly Support Breastfeeding: New Tools for Sustainable Change’.

The Executive Director of CHEDI, Mrs Selina Enyioha, said the programme was aimed at promoting breastfeeding as a crucial intervention for child survival, maternal well-being, and the development of resilient health systems. ‘Breastfeeding is not just a personal act; it is a public health priority and a building block for lifelong health. It has the power to reduce child mortality, improve maternal outcomes, and ease the pressure on fragile healthcare systems,’ Enyioha said.

She reiterated CHEDI’s commitment to grassroots health initiatives that prioritise women’s health, nutrition, and child welfare through education and community engagement. Enyioha called on government agencies, donors, and health sector stakeholders to strengthen support for breastfeeding through policy reforms and improved maternity protection in workplaces. She also urged increased investment in mother-friendly health facilities and the training of frontline health workers, especially in rural and underserved communities.