United Nations Children and Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has disclosed that the number of nursing mothers in Nigeria that practice exclusive breastfeeding in the first six months of childhood for their babies is dwindling, eroding the gains previously made.

In a statement that coincides with the beginning of 2009 World Breastfeeding Week, UNICEF, quoting figures from Progress for Children 2008 report, noted that in 1999, 22 percent of children were exclusively breastfed, but added that the figure came down to 17 percent in 2003. Current UNICEF figures also show that only 11.7 percent of children are exclusively breastfed for six months in Nigeria today.

UNICEF Executive Director, Ann M Veneman, said although there has been progress over the past 15 years, only 38 percent of infants under six months of age in the developing world are exclusively breastfed.

Meanwhile the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) is recommending the provision of increased professional and informal support for breastfeeding mothers.

"Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life can avert up to 13 per cent of under-five deaths in developing countries," he said.

Recent scientific studies have found that education and support for mothers significantly extends the number of months that they breastfeed, and is especially helpful in promoting exclusive breastfeeding. Other studies have shown that counseling and support in health facilities have increased in the number of mothers who initiate breastfeeding within the first hour of birth.

Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life reduces infant mortality linked to common childhood illnesses and under nutrition.

Breastfeeding can reduce the number of deaths caused by acute respiratory infection and diarrhea, two major child killers, as well as from other contagious diseases. It also contributes to the health of mothers, and creates a bond between the mother and child.

Appropriate infant feeding can save lives, ensure optimal growth and development, and contribute to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

In Nigeria, UNICEF says it supports advocacy and communication to change behaviour to foster the culture of exclusive breastfeeding.

World Breastfeeding Week was first celebrated in 1992, now observed in over 120 countries from August 1-7 annually.