The Kebbi State Government has approved the immediate implementation of a six-month maternity leave for female civil servants, a move aimed at improving child and maternal health outcomes in the state.
Governor Nasir Idris made the announcement on Tuesday during the launch of the Kebbi State Food and Nutrition Policy and Multi-Sectoral Plan of Action on Nutrition (MSPAN) in Birnin Kebbi. He added that a bill would be sent to the State House of Assembly to provide legislative backing for the new maternity leave policy.
As part of broader efforts to combat child malnutrition, Governor Idris also approved funding for a UNICEF-backed nutrition initiative. The state government will contribute ₦500 million, while the 21 local government councils are expected to jointly provide ₦261 million. These funds will be paid into a UNICEF-managed account to support nutrition programmes targeting malnourished children.
Governor Idris directed the Commissioners for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and for Finance to release the approved funds by Friday. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to food security, child nutrition, and public health.
Speaking at the event, Isah Ibrahim, representing the Head of UNICEF’s Sokoto Field Office, said the funds would be used to procure essential nutrition commodities such as multiple micronutrient supplements, lipid-based nutrient supplements, and ready-to-use therapeutic food.
Also in attendance, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Abba Sani-Kalgo, praised the governor’s consistent support for nutrition and food security initiatives.
