First Lady Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu Welcomes Lagos’ First Babies of 2026

As the clock struck midnight and the world ushered in 2026, the hospitals of Lagos State were filled with more than just celebration; they were filled with the cries of new life. Continuing a cherished annual tradition, the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, embarked on a cross-city tour to personally welcome the state’s first newborns of the year. Visiting Ibeju Lekki, Imota, and Gbagada General Hospitals, the First Lady celebrated the arrival of these "Ambassadors of Hope," marking a symbolic start to a year defined by promise and renewal.

At each stop, the atmosphere was one of profound joy and gratitude. Dr. Sanwo-Olu, a medical professional herself, moved through the maternity wards, presenting gifts and essential care items to the mothers and their infants. Her presence at Ibeju Lekki General Hospital—the first stop on her itinerary—brought a sense of grace to the early morning hours. She emphasized that the birth of a child on New Year’s Day is not just a family milestone, but a collective blessing for the state, representing the continuous cycle of growth and the potential for a brighter future.

​The tour progressed to Imota and Gbagada General Hospitals, where the First Lady engaged with healthcare workers, praising their dedication and the high standard of maternal care provided within the state’s healthcare system. During her remarks, she underscored the government’s commitment to reducing maternal and infant mortality rates. By making these visits a priority, Dr. Sanwo-Olu highlighted the intrinsic value of every life born in Lagos, reinforcing the idea that the health and well-being of the youngest citizens are the bedrock of societal progress.

​Beyond the distribution of gifts, the First Lady’s message was one of long-term vision and communal responsibility. She spoke of the "boundaries-pushing potential" inherent in every child, regardless of their background. She urged parents to invest deeply in the education and moral upbringing of these newborns, noting that the "fresh perspectives" of the next generation are what will eventually drive the innovation and resilience of Lagos State in the decades to come.

As the festivities concluded, the First Lady offered a heartfelt prayer for the babies to grow in health, wisdom, and happiness. This thoughtful gesture has set a resonant, positive tone for 2026, reminding Lagosians that amidst the hustle of the mega-city, the arrival of a new life remains the ultimate reason for celebration. The dawn of 2026 in Lagos is thus marked not just by fireworks, but by a renewed pledge to nurture the future, one precious life at a time.