The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mariya Mahmoud, has commended Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her sustained dedication to maternal and child welfare through the annual First Baby of the Year initiative.
Mahmoud described the programme as a compassionate and enduring tradition that reflects the First Lady’s genuine concern for mothers and newborns, while also symbolising hope and renewal at the start of each new year. She made the remarks on Thursday in Abuja while joining the First Lady to officially welcome the first baby of 2026, delivered at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi.
In a statement signed by her media aide, Austine Elemue, the minister congratulated the parents and family of the newborn, describing the birth as a powerful symbol of fresh beginnings for the FCT and the nation at large. She noted that the initiative has continued to inspire optimism and reinforce the importance of maternal and child health in national development.
Mahmoud also paid tribute to healthcare workers across the territory, including doctors, nurses, midwives and other support staff, for their commitment to ensuring safe deliveries and quality healthcare services, particularly during festive periods when staffing and resources are often stretched.
Reaffirming the commitment of the FCT Administration to improving healthcare delivery, the minister said efforts would continue to strengthen health infrastructure, deploy skilled personnel and expand access to essential services. She explained that these measures align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises improved welfare and social services for Nigerians.
“As we usher in 2026, let us recommit to safeguarding mothers and children, supporting families, and fostering a healthier Abuja,” Mahmoud was quoted as saying.
She further stressed that the FCT Administration, under the leadership of Minister Nyesom Wike, remains focused on encouraging residents to prioritise health and family well-being as the foundation for shared prosperity and sustainable development.
The statement also disclosed that the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat has commenced the distribution of essential neonatal kits to nursing mothers at primary healthcare centres across the six area councils of the territory. The initiative is aimed at supporting new mothers and giving newborns a healthy start to life.
Speaking on the programme, the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, represented by the Director of the Child Development Department, Idris Yahaya, said the distribution of neonatal kits is a long-standing tradition inspired by the First Lady’s passion for maternal and child welfare.
Items distributed include baby wrappers and blankets, baby clothes, diapers, baby towels, soap, lotion or petroleum jelly, methylated spirit for cord care, hand sanitisers and other essential supplies. Officials said the initiative underscores the government’s broader commitment to improving maternal and child health outcomes across the FCT.
