The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Mariya Mahmoud, has publicly lauded Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her steadfast support of the annual First Baby of the Year initiative. The commendation came as both leaders welcomed the nation's first newborn of 2026 at the Federal Medical Centre in Jabi, Abuja, on January 1, 2026.
A Symbol of Hope and Renewed Commitment
Minister Mahmoud described the long-running tradition as a deeply compassionate act that highlights the First Lady's unwavering dedication to the welfare of mothers and children across Nigeria. She extended warm congratulations to the parents of the newborn, characterizing the child's arrival as a profound symbol of hope, renewal, and fresh beginnings for both the FCT and the entire nation.
During the visit, Mahmoud also took time to praise the relentless efforts of healthcare professionals. She specifically thanked doctors, nurses, midwives, and support staff who work tirelessly to ensure safe deliveries and high-quality maternal and child healthcare, even during festive holidays.
Strengthening Healthcare Under the Renewed Hope Agenda
The minister used the occasion to reaffirm the FCT Administration's health priorities. She emphasized that, under President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, the administration is firmly committed to enhancing healthcare infrastructure across the territory. This includes strengthening medical facilities, expanding access to skilled health personnel, and implementing broad improvements to maternal and child health services.
"As we usher in 2026, let us recommit to safeguarding mothers and children, supporting families, and fostering a healthier Abuja," Mahmoud stated. She stressed that every child deserves the best possible start in life, a principle guiding the administration's policies.
Neonatal Kits Distributed to Nursing Mothers
In a related development supporting the First Lady's vision, the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat has begun distributing essential neonatal care kits to nursing mothers. The distribution is taking place at primary healthcare centres across all six area councils of the FCT.
The Mandate Secretary of the Secretariat, Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, explained that the gesture directly reflects Senator Tinubu's consistent concern for maternal and child welfare. The Secretary, represented by Idris Yahaya, Director of the Child Development Department, noted the initiative aims to nurture hope from the very beginning of life.
The comprehensive neonatal kits contain vital items for newborn care, including:
- Baby wrappers and blankets
- Baby clothes and towels
- Disposable and reusable diapers
- Baby soap, lotion, and petroleum jelly
- Methylated spirit for umbilical cord care
- Hand sanitizers
In her closing remarks, Minister Mahmoud underscored that the FCT Administration, under the leadership of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, will continue to encourage residents to prioritize health and family well-being. She framed this as a fundamental part of building a prosperous future for the capital and the country.
