Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The wife of Abia State Governor, Mrs Priscilla Otti, has gifted the first baby of the year, Master Chiudo Favour, N500,000.
The Governor’s wife also donated N300,000 each to other three new borns during her visit to the Aba South Primary Health Care Centre on January 1.
Mrs Otti further presented 50kg bags of rice, sets of beverages, baby clothing, and other essential items, to each of the families, and reaffirmed her husband’s commitment to maternal and child welfare.
Addressing the crowd that gathered when she visited the facility, Mrs Otti emphasised Government’s focus on improving healthcare services across the state.
She congratulated the families and thanked God for their safe delivery.
“Today, we celebrate life and the beautiful journey of motherhood. 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 underscored the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby’s life, urging mothers to embrace this practice.
“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 advised.
Mrs. Otti also addressed healthcare workers at the centre, 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.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Enoch Uche, and the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Maureen Aghukwa, thanked Mrs Otti for the visit, describing her as a beacon of hope for families.
They also lauded Governor Alex Otti’s administration for transforming healthcare infrastructure across the state.
Responding, Mrs Comfort Favour, mother of the first baby of the year, expressed profound gratitude to Mrs Otti for her generosity and prayed for divine blessings upon her and the state government.
The Governor’s wife also visited the Federal Medical Center, Umuahia, where she distributed additional gifts, including baby supplies and other essentials to first babies of the year
Speaking at the FMC, Mrs Otti said: “Every child born in Abia State is a blessing, and it is our duty to support families during these precious moments.”
