by Dolapo Adelana

The Ekiti State Government (EKSG) on Monday increased the maternity leave period for women in its public service from 12 weeks to 16 weeks.

The Permanent Secretary in the State Ministry of Information, Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Kola Ajumobi, made the announcement at a public enlightenment forum in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.

Ajumobi said the increment was approved by the state governor, Ayodele Fayose, as part of his display of love and special regard for the womenfolk in the state.

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He said the gesture was also aimed at encouraging exclusive breastfeeding for newly born children in the first six months of birth.

He added that it was also meant to promote good nutrition for both mothers and their newborn children, he said.

Ajumobi said that nursing mothers would also be granted two hours’ off duty every day for a period of six months from the date they resumed from maternity leave.

He reiterated the commitment of the Fayose-led administration to reduce mortality and morbidity rate to the barest minimum.