By Prosper Mene
The Osun State Government has confirmed that a newborn baby delivered by a mentally-challenged woman in Modakeke is safe and receiving proper care in a government-protected facility.
The announcement follows commendation from the Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA), a non-governmental organisation dedicated to maternal, newborn, and child health, which praised the state governmentโs swift and compassionate response to the situation.
During a courtesy visit to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, Mrs. Abimbola Babatunde, on Monday, the WBFA delegation expressed satisfaction with the handling of the case.
The baby was delivered on October 21, 2024, at the Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in Itaasin, Modakeke.
Mr. Kehinde Akinsola, WBFAโs National Programmes Lead, lauded the healthcare workers at PHC Itaasin for their prompt intervention and safe delivery of the child despite the motherโs condition.
โAs an organisation committed to social protection for women, children, and communities across Nigeria, we ensure families have the knowledge, skills, and support to live healthier and safer lives,โ Akinsola said.
He explained that a WBFA midwife delivering the organisationโs Mamacare 360 antenatal and postnatal education programme at the facility alerted the foundation as soon as the delivery occurred.
โWe immediately stepped in to protect the newborn. There were already individuals attempting to claim the child without legitimate grounds, which raised serious concerns,โ Akinsola noted.
The foundation promptly notified relevant government authorities and followed up to ensure protective measures were implemented.
Akinsola extended appreciation to the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, the Osun Primary Healthcare Development Board, staff of PHC Itaasin, and the Ogunsua of Modakeke, His Royal Majesty Oba Joseph Olubiyi Toriola, for their roles in safeguarding the infant.
In response, Mrs. Abimbola Babatunde thanked WBFA for its vigilance and proactive engagement.
She assured that the baby has been placed in a secure, undisclosed childcare facility where all necessary medical and welfare needs are being met.
โThe child is healthy, safe, and receiving the best possible care under government supervision,โ the Permanent Secretary confirmed.
The case highlights ongoing collaboration between the Osun State Government and civil society organisations in protecting vulnerable children and upholding child rights across the state.
