Wife of the Zamfara State Governor, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, has urged the State government to implement six months of paid maternity leave for all working mothers in the public service.
The Governor’s wife stated this during a courtesy visit to the State Governor, Dauda Lawal at the Government House, Gusau.
She explained that granting six months of paid maternity leave was not just a policy, but a kind of love and a vital investment in the collective future of children.
“My visit to His Excellency’s office today is driven by love, compassion, and a deep desire to secure a peaceful and prosperous future for our children. That future begins with the family — the heartbeat of our society,” she said.
The Governor’s wife further stated that several governments and companies that have implemented the six-month maternity leave policy have reportedly improved workers’ retention, increased morale, and healthier babies.
“I commend His Excellency for listening with compassion and opening his heart to this conversation”, she added.
“Let our meeting today mark the beginning of a transformative journey, one that sets an example for other states to follow. Let us give our women the support they deserve. Let us give our children the start they need,” she stated.
Appealing directly to the Governor, she said, “My love, I appeal to your good heart and vision, knowing that together we can build a brighter future.”
Earlier, the UNICEF representative, Ms. Kulu Sanda, who represented the Chief of Field Officer Sokoto, Mr. Michael Banda, said that advocating for six months of paid maternity leave for nursing mothers aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs, and the United Nations standards, which promote the well-being of both mother and child.
“It gives time for bonding and promotes exclusive breastfeeding, which strengthens the child’s immunity, helping them grow into healthy and vibrant individuals. We are talking about the future of our children,” she stated.
Ms. Sanda pointed out that a child’s future is directly linked to their health.
“We cannot talk about the future of our children without looking at their health. Only a healthy child can secure his or her future. That’s why UNICEF fully supports this policy,” she said.
Sands also said that mothers who have adequate time to breastfeed and take their children for routine immunizations are in a better position to support their child’s development.
In his response, Governor Dauda Lawal commended the First Lady for her advocacy and assured that the request would be thoroughly deliberated with the members of the State Executive Council.
“We will look into the request and come up with a workable framework. Whether it will be six months or another feasible duration, we want to ensure it’s a sustainable policy,” he assured.
Governor Lawal promised to provide feedback in the shortest possible time, emphasizing the importance of implementing policies that are impactful and long-lasting.
“It’s not something we want to start and then abandon halfway. I assure you that we will give this request the serious consideration it deserves and get back to you soon,” he stated.
The Governor showed satisfaction to the delegation and development partners, including UNICEF, for their continued support and collaboration with the State government.
