FG okays establishment of crèches at markets, workplaces

• Tinubu said the innovation would enhance national development
• Commended Mrs Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, the Minister of Women Affairs, for her laudable achievements within 100 days of her assumption of duty

The Federal Government has endorsed the establishment of crèches at markets and workplaces nationwide to optimise working mothers’ productivity and promote breastfeeding.

President Bola Tinubu disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja at the inauguration of the remodelled workplace nursery (creche) by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs (FMoWA).

Represented by Dr Salma Anas, his Special Assistant on Health, the President said the innovation would enhance national development.

He commended Mrs Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, the Minister of Women Affairs, for her laudable achievements within 100 days of her assumption of duty.

“We will continue to support you to replicate this in every state of the federation and every workplace.

“This will be extended to those working in the informal sector because more women are working outside the formal sector.

“So, working with you and all our partners that are here, we hope to replicate and ensure we have workplace crèches for mothers working in the formal and informal sectors, as well as the marketplace,’’ he said.

The President said the renaming of the Centre after Victoria Gowon, wife of the former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, was apt as the facility would contribute to the achievements of his renewed hope agenda.

“It is a great landmark that we are witnessing, because this aligns with the vision of the renewed agenda for economic growth of Nigeria, for revamping Nigeria and putting it back on track.

“We cannot achieve renewed hope for Nigeria without focusing on the future of our nation.

“The future of our nation is our children, and it starts right from birth by encouraging breastfeeding for their physical and mental growth,” he said.

Earlier, the minister said the crèche would be upgraded to nursery and primary school in the future.

She also mulled having women and children hospitals across the nation, starting from the six geopolitical zones to the states.

Kennedy-Ohanenye reiterated the commitment of her ministry to the empowerment of women, especially in the area of agriculture, and the elimination of all forms of violence and harmful traditional practices in society.