Lagos welcomes first babies of 2025,
…as First Lady reaffirms commitment to maternal and child health
By Adeola Ogunrinde
Lagos State welcomed its first babies of the year in a heartwarming ceremony at three general hospitals, where the First Lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to maternal and child healthcare.
The celebrations were held at Ikorodu General Hospital, Ifako-Ijaiye General Hospital, and Isolo General Hospital. Baby Olaolu, a girl weighing 2.75kg, was born at 12:34 a.m. at Ikorodu General Hospital.
At Ifako-Ijaiye General Hospital, Twins Osayomi—a girl (2.5kg) and a boy (2.049kg)—arrived at 12:14 a.m. and 12:15 a.m., respectively. Baby Lawal, weighing 2.7kg, was born at 1:32 a.m. at Isolo General Hospital.
The First Lady, accompanied by Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, Wife of the Deputy Governor, presented gifts to the newborns and their families.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Sanwo-Olu highlighted the symbolic importance of welcoming new life. “The birth of a child signifies hope, continuity, and resilience, uniting us in joy and gratitude,” she said.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu praised healthcare professionals for their dedication and commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration for its healthcare advancements, including the establishment of Lagos State Medical University and grassroots initiatives like the Tuberculosis Ambassadors program.
The First Lady also expressed gratitude to philanthropic organizations and corporate partners for their contributions to improving healthcare. She encouraged further collaborations to enhance healthcare delivery across the state.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to maternal and child health, noting the success of initiatives like breastfeeding campaigns and the Maternal and Child Health Week.
She urged residents to adopt healthy lifestyles and utilize available healthcare programs, emphasizing collective responsibility in fostering societal welfare.
At Ikorodu General Hospital, Dr. Sanwo-Olu commended the staff for their improved service delivery and celebrated the birth of Baby Olaolu as a beacon of hope.
At Ifako-Ijaiye General Hospital, Barr. ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Secretary to the State Government, congratulated the parents of Twins Osayomi and lauded the hospital’s remarkable achievements.
She urged residents to enroll in the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme to improve healthcare access.
At Isolo General Hospital, Dr. Atinuke Onayiga, Chairman of the Lagos State Health Service Commission, celebrated the birth of Baby Lawal and praised the hospital’s healthcare workers for their dedication.
Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, applauded the First Lady for sustaining the tradition of celebrating the first baby of the year.
He emphasized the importance of collective efforts in advancing healthcare, particularly through the ILERA EKO health insurance scheme.
The event also witnessed the participation of several dignitaries, including Mrs. Olayinka Oladunjoye, Federal Commissioner representing Lagos State in the National Population Commission; female members of the Lagos State Executive Council; and local government chairpersons.
The First Lady extended heartfelt congratulations to the parents and expressed hope for the children’s bright future.
“May these babies grow to become responsible citizens and nation-builders,” she added.
