Vitafoam Nigeria Plc has continued its long-standing “First Baby” tradition at the Lagos Island Maternity Hospital, marking 60 years of celebrating new life and supporting maternal healthcare as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitment.

At exactly 2:45am, the first baby of 2026—a baby girl weighing 2.1kg—was delivered at the hospital. Her birth not only ushered in the new year but also symbolised the continuation of Vitafoam’s six-decade initiative. Her parents, Clifford Afekhuai from Edo State and his wife, Fidelia from Delta State, received gifts and recognition from the company.

An emotional Afekhuai expressed gratitude, describing himself as “the happiest person,” and offered prayers for the hospital staff, wishing them wisdom, long life, and continued success in caring for mothers and newborns.

The second baby of the year arrived at 4:25am. A healthy baby boy weighing 3.2kg was born to Oluwatoyin Salimon Oluwatunji and Oluwatoyin Kawthar from Kwara State. The father commended the hospital’s medical team for the smooth delivery process and warm treatment, describing the experience as stress-free.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Vitafoam’s Commercial Director, Alhaji Dahiru Gambo, said the company has consistently celebrated the first babies of the year for six decades as part of its CSR efforts. He explained that the initiative recognises the first three babies born at the hospital on January 1 each year, with donations including mattresses, pillows, and bedding for both the families and the hospital.

Gambo noted that the partnership is aimed at motivating healthcare workers and supporting improved service delivery, stressing that collaboration between the private sector and public institutions is vital for strengthening healthcare services.

The Medical Director and Chief Executive Officer of Lagos Island Maternity Hospital, Dr. Taiwo Adeiyi, praised Vitafoam for its unwavering support, describing the initiative as a commendable example of corporate giving. He urged other organisations, especially those involved in maternal and child-care products, to emulate the gesture.

Also speaking, the Apex Nurse and Head of Nursing Services, Toyin Champion, described Vitafoam as a dependable partner and appealed for increased support, reaffirming the hospital’s openness to partnerships that improve maternal and child healthcare.

The annual celebration once again highlighted Vitafoam’s enduring role in supporting families, healthcare workers, and communities at the very start of each new year.