The Wife of the Governor of Rivers State, Her Excellency Lady Valerie Siminalayi Fubara, on Christmas Day extended love and care to newborns and vulnerable children as part of activities marking the 2025 Christmas celebration, while also commending the dedication of medical personnel to maternal and child healthcare.

Lady Fubara paid a heart-warming visit to the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH), Port Harcourt, where the state welcomed two babies born in the early hours of Christmas Day. The Christmas babies were identified as Baby Eric Chinyere Blessing, weighing 2.7kg and delivered at 12:02am, and Baby Chidugam Kinikachi Owhondah, delivered at 2:00am.

Accompanied by members of Rivers Women Unite for Sim (RWUS), the First Lady toured the maternity facilities of the hospital, thanking God for the safe delivery of the newborns and congratulating their parents. She described the babies as special gifts of the season and symbols of hope for families and the state.

“We are here to express love and share in the joy of these newborns who share the same birthday with our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ,” Lady Fubara said.

She commended doctors, nurses and other health workers at RSUTH for their commitment and dedication to maternal and child care, noting that their sacrifice was vital to safeguarding lives. Lady Fubara made special presentations of baby-friendly items, toiletries and cash to the babies and their mothers, and offered prayers for divine protection, good health and a bright future for the children, including special prayers for Baby Eric Chinyere.

The First Lady reaffirmed her commitment to the welfare of women and children in Rivers State, stressing that celebrating babies born on Christmas and New Year’s Day had become a cherished tradition in the state. She also charged parents to raise their children in the fear of God so they would grow to be responsible and useful members of society.

In his remarks, the Chief Medical Director of RSUTH, Prof. Chizindu Alikor, welcomed Lady Fubara and appreciated her humanitarian gesture. He also thanked Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara for approving the employment of 1,000 staff and for equipping key departments of the hospital, assuring that the management would remain committed to delivering quality healthcare services.

From RSUTH, Lady Fubara proceeded to the Port Harcourt Children’s Home in Borikiri, where she spread Christmas cheer among the children. She expressed deep satisfaction with the cleanliness of the facility and the level of care provided, commending the management and caregivers for maintaining a clean, healthy and welcoming environment.

“I’m so impressed. The place you’re keeping is clean,” she said while inspecting the dormitories and interacting with the children and staff.

Lady Fubara described the caregivers as hardworking and dedicated, noting that their commitment was evident in the wellbeing of the children. During the visit, the children appealed to the Rivers State Government to improve the welfare of their caregivers, acknowledging their selfless service. The First Lady listened attentively and expressed empathy, assuring them that their concerns were noted.

The visit ended with the presentation of Christmas gifts and food items to the children, as Lady Fubara reaffirmed her resolve to continue supporting vulnerable groups and promoting child welfare across Rivers State, while expressing hope for a more prosperous New Year 2026 for all families.