NAFDAC's Strict Stance on Breast Milk Substitutes
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a strong warning against the misuse of breast milk substitutes (BMS), emphasizing that any individual, health facility, or vendor found violating the international code will face legal consequences. This statement was made during a press briefing held as part of the 2025 World Breastfeeding Week activities.
Hamis Yahya, NAFDAC’s Bauchi State Coordinator, highlighted the agency’s critical role in promoting healthy living among Nigerians, especially pregnant women and children under five. He explained that NAFDAC is responsible for advocating and monitoring compliance with the International Code of Marketing of Breast Milk Substitutes. As a signatory to this treaty, the agency plays a key role in ensuring that breastfeeding practices align with global standards.
One of the core principles of the code is to encourage exclusive breastfeeding for infants between the ages of 0 and 6 months. This practice is crucial for providing essential nutrients and immune support, particularly through colostrum—the first milk produced after childbirth. Yahya emphasized that colostrum contains all the necessary elements to protect babies from common illnesses and supports their overall growth and development.
He also noted that exclusive breastfeeding strengthens the bond between mother and child while reducing the risk of contamination. Additionally, it helps mothers recover faster after childbirth by stimulating hormones that aid in post-delivery recovery. In cases where medical necessity arises, healthcare professionals may recommend formula, but otherwise, it is unnecessary.
Benefits of Breastfeeding Beyond Health
Breastfeeding offers more than just health benefits. It also provides economic advantages, as breast milk substitutes can be costly and are not needed if the mother maintains proper nutrition. Furthermore, it serves as a natural form of contraception and helps with child spacing, allowing mothers to maintain their health and well-being.
Yahya encouraged continued breastfeeding up to two years, combined with complementary feeding, as it supports both the mother and the child’s long-term development. He stressed that breastfeeding is nature’s way of nurturing both parties and should be prioritized over artificial alternatives.
Advocacy and Compliance Efforts
As part of the 2025 World Breastfeeding Week theme, NAFDAC is working closely with various stakeholders, including hospitals, healthcare providers, orphanages, pharmacies, and supermarkets. The agency ensures that workplaces provide dedicated spaces for mothers to continue breastfeeding while at work. This effort includes collaboration with state governments, NGOs, and other organizations such as the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition and Save the Children.
A Technical Committee exists in every state to promote advocacy and ensure compliance with the code. These committees play a vital role in disseminating information and assessing the level of adherence to the guidelines. NAFDAC aims to engage both public and private stakeholders to institutionalize breastfeeding support across different sectors.
Addressing Industry Influence
Yahya warned that manufacturers and distributors of breast milk substitutes often use incentives to influence mothers and healthcare workers. These tactics include offering gifts like diapers or branded items during antenatal visits or to medical professionals. Such practices aim to steer individuals toward formula use instead of breastfeeding.
He concluded by reiterating NAFDAC’s commitment to enforcing the code. While current efforts focus on advocacy, enforcement measures are set to follow. The agency has already gazetted regulations, and offenders will soon face appropriate penalties.
By reinforcing the importance of breastfeeding and taking strict actions against violations, NAFDAC continues to champion the health and well-being of mothers and children across Nigeria.