Factors Influencing The Practice Of Exclusive Breastfeeding In Three Regions Of Nigeria

Background: Breastfeeding is the super food for babies and is sufficient if given exclusively in the first six months of a baby's life. In Nigeria, the practice of breastfeeding is high but Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF) rates remain low at 13%. Several interrelating factors directly or indirectly affect the decision or ability of mothers to practice EBF. The objective of this study was to assess the factors influencing EBF in Nigeria.Methodology: A cross sectional survey among 433 mothers of children between six and twenty-four months old was conducted in urban and peri-urban/rural parts of Zaria, Abakaliki, and Ibadan. The study adopted a mixed research methodology that consisted of key informant interviews, structured questionnaires, and focus group discussions. Descriptive statistic was used to analyze the quantitative data while the themes in the qualitative data were analyzed using manual content analysis.Results: Approximately 90% of all mothers interviewed had heard about EBF, although with variations in the exact definition of EBF as many interpreted it to be just till the start of 6 months. The practice of EBF is low - Ibadan (16%), Abakaliki (10%) and Zaria (2%).Inaccurate knowledge of EBF, occupation, antenatal care attendance, age of mothers, supportive environment from stakeholders are some factors associated with the practice of EBF.Conclusion: The findings in this study indicate that several factors affect the practice of EBF in Nigeria. Improving the practice of EBF in the country will require a multifaceted approach and concerted efforts from stakeholders to address the deterring factors limiting its practice.Keywords: Exclusive Breastfeeding, Interrelating factors, social activity and significant others, and Nigeri