Appraisal of Nursing Mothers ’ Knowledge and Practice of Exclusive Breastfeeding in Yobe State, Nigeria

Under-5 mortality rates in Nigeria are 75 and 157/1000 live births. Malnutrition and Severe Acute Malnutrition rate accounts for 53 % and 12 % of under-5 mortality respectively. This paper examines mothers ’ knowledge and practices of exclusive breast feeding (EBF). The state was stratified into three senatorial districts. Data were sought and obtained through semi-structured interview schedule from 541 mothers of children 0-12months, 19 focus group discussions and 22 key informant interviews techniques were conducted among community duty-bearers. The result reveals7.4 % mothers practiced EBF with> 78.9 % initiating breastfeeding after an hour. 57% admitted colostrum, 9 % EBF was observed in the rural and 4.9 % in urban communities. Early initiation of breastfeeding was higher in urban than rural communities. Social-cultural beliefs play major roles in hindering exclusive breastfeeding. Enlightenment programmes and establishment of breast feeding support groups were suggested for improving practice of EBF