In a heartwarming annual tradition, the Rotary Club of Lagos Central has once again celebrated the arrival of the New Year by honouring the first baby born in Lagos. The ceremony took place at the Lagos Island Maternity Hospital (LIMH), where gifts were presented to the newborn and its mother.
A New Year's Dawn Delivery
The honour of being the first baby of the year 2026 went to a child delivered to Mrs. Fidelis Afekinsu. The birth occurred in the early hours of Thursday, 1st January, at precisely 3:45 a.m.. The Rotary Club members did not stop at the firstborn; they also extended their generosity to the second and third babies delivered at the hospital on New Year's Day, ensuring multiple families began the year with joy and support.
Four Decades of Commitment to Family and Care
Speaking during the presentation, the President of the Rotary Club of Lagos Central, Elizabeth Ajilore, highlighted the profound significance of the initiative. She revealed that this year marked the 44th consecutive year of the club's 'First Baby of the Year' project, establishing it as a flagship community program.
"This tradition is a core reflection of our unwavering commitment to supporting maternal and child care," Ajilore stated. She emphasized that the program aligns perfectly with Rotary International's global focus on improving health outcomes for mothers and children. "Over these many decades, this hospital has truly become a part of our extended family," she added, underscoring the deep, long-standing relationship between the club and the healthcare institution.
Recognising Dedicated Hospital Staff
The event was not solely about the newborns. The Rotary Club also took a meaningful moment to commend the hardworking staff of the Lagos Island Maternity Hospital for their dedication and service. Ajilore praised the medical team, saying, "You care very deeply. Your efforts do not go unnoticed."
As a tangible token of this appreciation, diligent staff members were honoured with plaques and monetary rewards. In the junior staff category, Mr. Tejidinu Ayinde Bashir was named the overall best, while Mrs. Fadire Rachael Oluwatoyin received the award for best staff in the senior category.
Responding on behalf of the hospital, the Managing Director of LIMH, Dr. Taiwo Olugbenga Adeiyi, expressed profound gratitude to the Rotary Club for its sustained support and generosity over the years.
A Full-Circle Moment
One of the most poignant highlights of the ceremony was a revelation that added a deeply personal layer to the club's connection with the hospital. It was announced that four current members of the Rotary Club of Lagos Central were themselves born at the Lagos Island Maternity Hospital. This full-circle moment beautifully illustrated the enduring legacy and community impact of the institution the club has supported for over four decades.
The annual event continues to stand as a beacon of community service, blending celebration of new life with recognition of those who safeguard it, reinforcing the vital importance of maternal and child healthcare in Lagos.
