The Wife of Abia State Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti has welcomed the arrival of the first babies born in the state in this new year 2025, celebrating them with joy and happiness.
The first baby of the year was identified as , Master Chiudo Favour delivered at the Aba South Primary Healthcare Centre, shortly after the new year emerged at the other side of 2024 midnight.
During her visit to the health centre, three other newborns that arrived in the early hours of January 1, 2025 were also welcomed into Abia by the first lady and her entourage.
“Today, we celebrate life and the beautiful journey of motherhood,” she enthused carrying the first baby of the year in her arms.
Mrs. Otti broke good news to the new borns, informing them that “our administration is committed to ensuring that every mother and child in Abia State has access to quality healthcare”.
“This is why we are upgrading health centres across the state to meet global standards,” she added.
Mrs. Otti presented ₦500,000 cash to the first arrival, Master Favour while three other babies that came at different intervals after him got ₦300,000 each. In addition, the families of the new babies each received 50kg bags of rice, packs of beverages, baby wears, and other essential items.
While addressing the crowd that gathered to join jn celebration of the new year babies, the Abia Governor’s wife reaffirmed her commitment to ensure that maternal and child welfare remain on the priority list of government.
She stated that government’s focus on improving healthcare services across the state was being implemented with utmost .
Mrs. Otti congratulated the families on the special gift of new babies, and reminded mothers of the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby’s life.
“Your children are our future, and their foundation begins with proper nutrition and care. I encourage all mothers to practice exclusive breastfeeding; it is the greatest gift you can give your newborns for their health and growth,” she said.
Mrs. Otti also addressed healthcare workers at the center, commending their dedication and encouraging them to continue their lifesaving efforts. “Your tireless efforts in saving lives and ensuring safe deliveries do not go unnoticed.
This administration recognizes your sacrifices and will continue to support you with the resources and facilities you need to excel,” she stated.
Mayor of Aba South Local Government, Chief Obilor Anyanwu, who was on hand to receive Mrs. Otti, commended her for the humanitarian activities she has been doing.
He said that by coming to celebrate the babies of the year, “Her Excellency has once again shown us the true meaning of leadership and compassion”, adding that “Abia State is blessed to have her.”
Mother of the first baby of the year, Mrs. Comfort Favour, was overwhelmed with happiness and expressed profound gratitude to Mrs. Otti for not coming to celebrate her new baby with presents.
She profusely thanked the Abia first lady and invoked divine blessings upon her and the state government.
After the celebration at Aba, Mrs Otti and her entourage that included the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Maureen Aghukwa and Health, Dr Enoch Uche, moved to the Federal Medical Centre(FMC), Umuahia to also welcome new year babies.
She distributed additional gifts, including baby supplies and other essentials, to spread joy and hope among new mothers.
“Every child born in Abia State is a blessing, and it is our duty to support families during these precious moments,” she said.
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