The Oyo State House of Assembly has called on the State Government to introduce paternity leave for male workers in both the civil service and private sector. The move aims to strengthen family bonds and ensure better care for newborns.
The appeal was made during Thursday’s plenary session, presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Abiodun Fadeyi. The motion was brought forward by Hon. Olorunpoto Rahman, representing Oyo East and West State Constituency, who highlighted the importance of a strong caregiver bond for a newborn’s emotional, social, and cognitive development.
Hon. Rahman explained that paternity leave would allow fathers to support their partners during the recovery period after childbirth, fostering gender equality and shared responsibility in parenting. He noted that many countries and states have already adopted this policy, which has proven to enhance productivity, boost morale, and promote family cohesion and stability.
“Several nations and states, including the Federal Civil Service, Lagos, and Enugu States, have implemented paternity leave policies. These have not only improved workplace morale but also strengthened family unity,” he stated.
The lawmaker emphasised that the absence of paternity leave in Oyo State could hinder fathers from providing essential emotional and practical support to their families during the postnatal period.
The House recommended that paternity leave should last a minimum of 10 working days and be available to beneficiaries up to three times throughout their service years. Additionally, the leave should be taken within the first month of childbirth or adoption to ensure fathers have adequate time to bond with their newborns and support their families effectively.