Gov. Alex Otti Approves 6-month Maternity Leaves For Nursing Mothers And 3 Weeks For Nursing Fathers.

Abia State Government has approved six months of paid maternity leave for nursing mothers and three weeks for nursing fathers

Wife of the Governor, Mrs Priscilla Otti who made the announcement Tuesday in her speech at the World Breastfeeding week held at the Abia State Children’s Specialist Hospital Umuahia, said the measure was part of the deliberate efforts of the state to promote exclusive breastfeeding

She also said it was to enable couples bond with their new babies and promote peace and harmony in the home.

Mrs Otti advised fathers to ensure they use the leave to stay home and assist their wives in some domestic chores to enable their wives concentrate fully on the babies.

The Abia First Lady, restated the commitment of the state government to promote mother-friendly workplace policies including establishment of creches at both public and private centers.

She encouraged nursing mothers to practice exclusive breastfeeding due to its numerous health and economic benefits.