Gombe First Lady Seeks 6-Month Paid Maternity Leave

The First Lady of Gombe State, Hajiya Asma’u Inuwa Yahaya, has urged the Gombe State House of Assembly to enact a law granting six months of paid maternity leave to working mothers across the state.
She made the call yesterday during an advocacy visit to the State House of Assembly, where she met with lawmakers, government officials, and representatives of women and health organizations.

The visit was part of her ongoing efforts to promote maternal and child health through her signature initiative, the “Mother’s Care, Nation’s Wealth” campaign, according to a statement by Zahrah Umar Adamu, the Senior Special Assistant to the Gombe State Governor on Media, Office of the First Lady.

Dr. Asma’u Yahaya explained that the proposed extension of maternity leave from three to six months would significantly improve maternal recovery, encourage exclusive breastfeeding, and enhance child survival rates.

She noted that the measure alignED with global best practices recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

“This is not just about time off work; it is about protecting the lives of mothers and children, strengthening families, and supporting our workforce. Healthy mothers raise healthy children, and healthy children build a stronger society,” she said.

Responding, the speaker of the Gombe State House of Assembly, Hon. Muhammad Abubakar Luggerewo, commended the First Lady for her unwavering commitment to women’s welfare and maternal health.
He assured that the legislature would give the proposal due consideration, noting its potential to improve family well-being and productivity across the state.