Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Wednesday welcomed the country’s first baby of 2026, a baby girl delivered at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja, marking the beginning of the New Year with a message of hope and national renewal.
The baby, born in the early hours of January 1, was formally presented to the First Lady during a visit to the medical facility, where she congratulated the parents and hospital staff for the successful delivery. Senator Tinubu described the birth as symbolic, noting that every new year brings fresh opportunities and renewed optimism for families and the nation.
During the visit, the First Lady presented an official birth certificate issued by the National Population Commission (NPC) to the baby’s mother, Mrs. Okoh Patience Omeyi, alongside gifts for the newborn. The presentation underscored the importance of birth registration as a foundation for national planning, identity, and access to social services.
Senator Tinubu also extended goodwill to another mother, Celestine Adakola Aeheme, who gave birth at the facility around the same period, commending the resilience of Nigerian women and the dedication of healthcare workers who ensured safe deliveries during the festive season.
She praised the management and staff of FMC Jabi for their professionalism and commitment to maternal and child healthcare, stressing the need for continued investment in health infrastructure to reduce maternal and infant mortality across the country.
Officials of the National Population Commission present at the event reiterated the commission’s commitment to ensuring timely registration of births nationwide, urging parents to prioritize obtaining birth certificates for their children.
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Hospital authorities expressed appreciation for the First Lady’s visit, describing it as a morale booster for both patients and staff. They noted that such gestures draw attention to the critical role of public healthcare institutions in safeguarding the wellbeing of mothers and newborns.
The annual tradition of welcoming the first baby of the year has become a symbolic national moment, celebrating life, responsible parenthood, and the government’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery for Nigerians.