Member representing Ibiono Ibom State Constituency, Honourable Moses Essien, has moved a motion at the State House of Assembly seeking to increase maternity leave from 16 weeks to 24 weeks and paternity leave from just 14 days to 24 full weeks.
Presenting the motion titled “The Need for Extension of Paid Maternity and Paternity Leave in Akwa Ibom State Civil Service,” Essien said the current provisions under the 2022 Public Service Rules are inadequate and fall below international health standards.
The lawmaker, who also chairs the House Committee on Health, Nutrition and Food Security, cited recommendations from the World Health Organization and UNICEF, which encourage exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months to improve infant nutrition, immunity and maternal well-being.
He also noted that several states—such as Lagos, Enugu, Kaduna, Kwara, and Cross River—have already implemented the six-month parental leave policy.
The motion was seconded by Honourable Lawrence Udoide of Ini Constituency and received strong support from the Leader of the House, Rt. Hon. Otobong Bob, who described the proposal as timely and family-friendly.
Presiding, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, urged Governor Umo Eno to direct the Head of Service to issue a circular for immediate implementation once the amendment is approved.
He also called for the establishment of creches and childcare centres in ministries and government agencies to support nursing mothers.
The House further directed its Committees on Labour and Productivity, as well as Health, to work closely with the Head of Service to ensure compliance when the new policy comes into effect.
