The Wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has urged nursing mothers to embrace exclusive breastfeeding, ensure full immunisation of infants, and completely shun female genital mutilation, stressing that the practices are critical to child survival and healthy development.
Dr. Oyebanji gave the advice at the Basic Health Centre, Asin-Ekiti, in Ikole West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), during the presentation of gift items to the first baby of the year delivered at the facility.
The First Lady warned that anyone who contravenes established medical guidelines on exclusive breastfeeding and child care would be appropriately dealt with, noting that such guidelines are designed to safeguard the lives and future of children.
She presented various gift items to the newborn baby girl, including bags of rice, packs of salt, garri, toiletries, diapers, baby clothes, plastic buckets, and cash gifts, among others. Similar gifts were also extended to another baby born in the same health facility.
Dr. Oyebanji explained that adherence to medical prescriptions and child healthcare guidelines is essential for rapid growth and overall wellbeing, urging parents and caregivers not to neglect professional medical advice.
She further advised parents to raise their children with proper values and discipline, stating that this would help build a society populated by responsible and impactful citizens.
Earlier, the Matron of the health facility, Mrs. Janet Fele, disclosed that the baby girl was delivered at about five minutes past midnight and weighed 2.5 kilogrammes at birth.
The baby’s mother, Mrs. Esther Olarenwaju, expressed gratitude to the Governor’s wife for the thoughtful gesture and support.
Meanwhile, as part of her humanitarian festive outreach, Dr. Oyebanji also visited the Ekiti State Government Children Correctional Centre in Ado-Ekiti, the Transit Home for Victims of Gender-Based Violence, and the Erelu Adebayo Children’s Home in Iyin-Ekiti, where she donated food items and cash gifts to the various centres.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Peju Babafemi, alongside political office holders and top government officials, were also present at the events.