Assessment of Exclusive Breastfeeding Knowledge Among Postnatal Mothers in Maiduguri, Borno State, North East Nigeria

Exclusive breastfeeding in the first six months of life is a cornerstone of child survival and optimal infant development, yet knowledge gaps among postnatal mothers continue to impede consistent practice in North East Nigeria. This study assesses the level of exclusive breastfeeding knowledge among postnatal mothers at health facilities in Maiduguri, Borno State. A cross-sectional descriptive design is applied to 290 postnatal mothers selected through systematic sampling from three hospitals and four primary healthcare facilities in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council. A pre-tested structured questionnaire evaluates knowledge of breastfeeding initiation timing, colostrum value, exclusive duration, complementary feeding transition, and management of perceived insufficient milk supply. Sociodemographic data including maternal education, parity, and exposure to antenatal breastfeeding counselling are also collected. SPSS is used for analysis, with chi-square tests examining associations between sociodemographic characteristics and knowledge scores. Available evidence from the 2022 North East Nigeria infant feeding assessment indicates that the proportion of mothers with adequate exclusive breastfeeding knowledge is below 40 percent, partly attributable to limited antenatal health education contact during displacement and conflict. The Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice framework guides the study's conceptual design. Findings will support Borno State's Nutrition Sector in strengthening breastfeeding counselling quality and frequency within postnatal care services. Keywords: exclusive breastfeeding, knowledge, postnatal mothers, Maiduguri, Borno State.