The Cross River State Government has officially approved an increase in maternity leave for nursing mothers in the state’s Civil and Public Service.
The leave period has been extended from three months to six months with full pay, effective Friday, December 20, 2024.
The announcement was contained in Head of Service Circular No. 7/2024, issued by Dr. Innocent E. Eteng, FCPA, the Head of Service. The policy aims to promote exclusive breastfeeding and improve child health and well-being in the state.
The decision was driven by concerning statistics provided by the World Health Organization (WHO), which revealed that as of 2023, the exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) rate in Cross River State stood at 38.95%. This figure highlighted the urgent need to address breastfeeding practices among mothers to ensure healthier child development.
Governor Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu approved the increase, emphasizing the importance of exclusive breastfeeding in boosting children’s health and overall well-being. The state government hopes the six-month paid maternity leave will provide nursing mothers the needed time to care for their infants.
Key Provisions:
- Maternity leave for nursing mothers in the state’s Civil/Public Service has been increased to six months, with full pay.
- Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies have been directed to ensure the circular receives adequate publicity and implementation.
- The new policy takes effect from December 20, 2024.
The decision aligns with global health recommendations and positions Cross River State as a leading advocate for maternal and child health in Nigeria.
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