Bauchi State Health Chief Urges Legislative Passage of Six-Month Maternity Leave Policy
BAUCHI, NIGERIA — The Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Development Board, Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed, has called on the Bauchi State House of Assembly to fast-track the passage of a proposed six-month maternity leave bill for nursing mothers. The policy, already approved by the State Executive Council, requires legislative ratification to become enforceable law.
Speaking during the 2026 International Women’s Day celebrations in Bauchi, Dr. Mohammed stated the policy is designed to strengthen maternal and child health by enabling mothers to practice exclusive breastfeeding for the recommended six-month period. He detailed that the proposed legislation would also mandate workplace support, including the establishment of crèches for employees’ infants and provisions for flexible working arrangements.
Dr. Mohammed linked the policy to broader challenges affecting women and girls in the state, citing early marriage, teenage pregnancy, and high school dropout rates as critical issues with severe health implications. He noted that girls who leave school early frequently experience childbirth complications, underscoring the need for community and institutional engagement to combat gender discrimination. He also highlighted the particular vulnerability of women and widows during crises such as conflict and displacement, often resulting in psychological trauma.
The health chief disclosed that the state has secured approximately 4.5 million Canadian dollars in funding for a five-year programme focused on promoting gender equality, adolescent development, and gender mainstreaming—a initiative that would complement the maternity leave policy.
Separately, Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, Chief of Field at the Bauchi Field Office of UNICEF, emphasized that International Women’s Day serves as a reminder that women’s rights require daily protection. She noted that event discussions centered on improving justice, protection, and essential services for women and girls. Dr. Rafique expressed concern over persistent poor maternal and child health indicators in Bauchi, including high rates of maternal and child mortality, malnutrition, and teenage pregnancy.
The proposed law now awaits deliberation and approval by the state legislature. Its supporters argue it represents a concrete step toward improving health outcomes and supporting working mothers, aligning with global best practices for maternal and newborn care. The outcome is being watched as a key test of the state’s commitment to gender-responsive health policy and the well-being of mothers and children.
