The dawn of 2025 was marked by heartwarming celebrations across Nigeria as dignitaries and officials welcomed the first babies of the year. Widespread visits to hospitals were carried out, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. Leading the charge was Mrs. Nana Shettima, wife of the Vice President, representing the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. Mrs. Shettima visited the Asokoro District Hospital in Abuja, bestowing gifts and well wishes upon baby Favour Stephen-Odion, the first baby born in the capital city, and Zimchikachim Ejiofor, the first baby boy. Her visit encompassed not only the symbolic first arrivals but also extended to other newborns, emphasizing the importance of postnatal care, immunization, and exclusive breastfeeding. The acting Chief Medical Director of the hospital praised the Tinubu administration’s dedication to healthcare transformation, highlighting the Renewed Hope Initiative’s focus on vulnerable demographics like women and children.
In Lagos State, the tradition continued with Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the governor’s wife, spreading joy across three general hospitals: Ikorodu, Ifako-Ijaiye, and Isolo. Baby Olaolu, twins Osayomi, and Baby Lawal were the first arrivals at these respective locations, each receiving warm greetings and gifts. Mrs. Sanwo-Olu underscored the significance of new births, representing the continuation of heritage and a shared responsibility for future generations. Her call for continued partnerships with NGOs and corporations reinforced the importance of collaborative efforts in enhancing healthcare delivery. Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, echoed these sentiments, praising ongoing initiatives such as breastfeeding campaigns and the ILERA EKO health insurance scheme, which demonstrate the state government’s commitment to maternal and child health.
Kwara State also embraced the spirit of renewal with Ambassador Olufolake Abdulrazaq, the governor’s wife, extending her congratulations to families welcoming newborns at the Kwara State University Teaching Hospital in Ilorin. Represented by the state Commissioner of Women Affairs, Mrs. Opeyemi Afolashade, the First Lady’s message emphasized the state government’s dedication to the well-being of its citizens. The Health Commissioner, Dr. Amina El-Imam, affirmed the significance of the annual event, emphasizing the value placed on every newborn, particularly in a new year. The choice of Kwara as a birthplace was underscored, highlighting Governor Abdulrazaq’s commitment to citizen welfare.
In Anambra State, Dr. Nonye Soludo, the governor’s wife, visited the General Hospital, Nnobi, presenting gifts to the first baby of the year and their family. This gesture of goodwill was extended to another newborn and their family at the General Hospital in Ekwulobia. Dr. Soludo, also the founder of the Healthy Living Initiative, emphasized the auspicious nature of these births and expressed her admiration for the dedication of healthcare workers. Her encouragement of healthy lifestyles and exclusive breastfeeding aligned with her focus on preventative healthcare and cost-effective childcare practices. Dr. Afam Obidike, the state’s Commissioner for Health, reinforced this message by urging mothers to utilize the state’s free antenatal, delivery, and immunization services.
Rivers State saw Lady Valerie Fubara, the governor’s wife, extend her heartfelt greetings and gifts to the first New Year babies at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) and the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH). Represented by Prof. Justina Jumbo, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation at UPTH, and Uchechukwu Uriri, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs at RSUTH, the First Lady reinforced the Fubara administration’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations. The visits served not only as a celebration of new life but also as a demonstration of community engagement and support. Representatives of both hospitals expressed their gratitude, acknowledging the state government’s investment in quality healthcare services. Prof. Datonye Alasia of UPTH and Prof. Chizindu Alikor of RSUTH both highlighted the hospitals’ readiness to provide effective tertiary healthcare in the state, thanks to Governor Fubara’s support.
The collective efforts of these dignitaries across multiple states demonstrated a shared commitment to celebrating new life and highlighting the importance of accessible and quality healthcare. The emphasis on maternal and child well-being, coupled with the promotion of healthy lifestyles, showcased a national focus on building a strong foundation for future generations. These visits served as a powerful symbol of hope and renewal, ushering in the new year with a focus on the well-being of the nation’s most vulnerable citizens. The consistent message from each visit reiterated the importance of community engagement and government support in creating a healthy and thriving society.
