Submission ID 130447
| Issue/Objective | Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is a high-impact intervention for improving infant nutrition, immunity, and survival, yet practice remains suboptimal in many parts of Nigeria. Effective improvement requires not only awareness, but also delivery platforms that influence maternal knowledge, attitudes, and feeding practices. This study assessed EBF knowledge, attitudes, and practices among post-natal women with infants aged 0-6 months in Kwara State, Nigeria, and compared outcomes between beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries of the Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRiN) project. It speaks directly to the conference theme by generating actionable evidence on how program platforms can advance more equitable maternal and child health outcomes. |
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| Methodology/Approach | We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study among 582 post-natal women selected through multistage sampling in Kwara State. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire on socio-demographic characteristics and EBF knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Comparative analyses were performed using chi-square tests and t-tests, while logistic regression identified predictors of EBF-related outcomes. |
| Results | ANRiN beneficiaries had significantly higher mean knowledge and attitude scores than non-beneficiaries. They were also significantly more likely to report breastfeeding in the 24 hours preceding the survey. Among non-beneficiaries, partner education, higher income, and information from healthcare providers predicted stronger EBF knowledge and attitudes. Among beneficiaries, urban residence, self-employment, and healthcare provider information were important predictors. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | Structured nutrition platforms such as ANRiN can strengthen maternal EBF knowledge and attitudes and support improved breastfeeding practices. However, variation across household and geographic contexts suggests that progress in practice requires more targeted implementation support. These findings align with Sub-theme 3 by showing how evidence from program settings can inform practical, accountable action to improve maternal and child health equity. |
| Presenters and Affiliations | Osoteku Demilade Solina Centre for International Development and Research Uchenna Igbokwe Solina Centre for International Development and Research Abdulateef Salisu Solina Centre for International Development and Research Muyi Aina National Primary Healthcare Development Agency Daniel Abraham Solina Centre for International Development and Research Precious Uahomo Solina Centre for International Development and Research Precious Otono Solina Centre for International Development and Research Pius Salako Solina Centre for International Development and Research Francis Fatoye Solina Centre for International Development and Research Inioluwa Olasehinde Solina Centre for International Development and Research Musibau Elweide Solina Centre for International Development and Research Yetunde Adeseluka-Oladejo Solina Centre for International Development and Research Ebenezer Abimbola Solina Centre for International Development and Research Usman Kolawole Solina Centre for International Development and Research Isioma George Solina Centre for International Development and Research Tobiloba Adaramati Solina Centre for International Development and Research David Otoosakyi Solina Centre for International Development and Research Eric Aigbogun Jr Solina Centre for International Development and Research Kudirat Lambe Kwara State Ministry of Health |
