In a touching start to 2026, Abia State's First Lady Mrs. Priscilla Otti made a memorable visit to welcome the year's first baby, symbolizing hope and new beginnings for the community.

The newborn, Oluebubechi Nwatuobi Excessgrace, arrived at 12:43 a.m. on January 1st at the Akirika Ukwu Primary Healthcare Centre in Ukwa East Local Government Area, weighing a healthy 3kg.

Mrs. Otti's compassionate gesture included presenting the baby's mother with essential gifts such as bags of rice, milk, groundnut oil, and sanitary items, along with a generous cash donation of N1 million to support her nutrition and well-being during the nursing period.

During her heartwarming visit, the First Lady personally named the baby girl 'Ihuoma' and expressed her hopes that the child would grow with peace, grace, and favor. Her visit not only celebrated the birth but also highlighted the ongoing improvements in Abia State's primary healthcare system.

The baby's parents, Mr. Nwatuobi Chiagozie and Mrs. Blessing Chinagozie from Itungwa in Obingwa Local Government Area, were overwhelmed with gratitude for the First Lady's kindness and support.

Health Commissioner Dr. Enoch Uche praised Mrs. Otti's consistent support for the healthcare sector, emphasizing how her efforts complement Governor Alex Otti's reforms in strengthening healthcare delivery across the state.

The matron of the healthcare centre, Ms. Kasarachi Emmanuel, expressed deep appreciation for the First Lady's timely and impactful visit, underlining the significance of such community-focused initiatives.