Islamic scholar and Chief Imam of Takur Commercial Mosque in Dutse, Jigawa State, Aminu Baba Waziri, said that the Holy Qur’an backs the breastfeeding of infants.
The religious scholar made this known on Wednesday while delivering a lecture at an event organised by UNICEF in collaboration with Jigawa State’s primary health care development agency to commemorate World Breastfeeding Week, held at the Manpower Development Institute, Dutse.
He added that Islam has prevented the execution of the death sentence for breastfeeding women due to its importance, according to Daily Post.
He reiterated that the Almighty Allah in the Holy Qur’an encouraged parents to ensure they breastfeed their newborns.
He backed his assertion by quoting Qur’an, 2:233, “And the mothers are to suckle their infants for two years, for those who wish to complete the suckling.”
While emphasizing the importance of breastfeeding, he explained that Prophet Muhammad suspended the execution of a breastfeeding woman who was sentenced to death until after weaning her child.
He said Allah has also ordered breastfeeding mothers to introduce newborn babies to breastmilk immediately after birth.
“Allah inspired Prophet Musa’s mother to breastfeed him after giving birth before she put him in the basket and in the river to save him from Pharaoh’s killing decree.”
Also, while addressing the gathering, the Nutrition Officer, UNICEF Kano field officer, Elhadji Diop urged the Jigawa State Government to Provide adequate resources for the prevention of malnutrition through promotion, protection and support for Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition.
