The Rotary Club of Lekki Golden has completed a second phase of its “Safe Start” initiative in the Ikota community, Lagos, reinforcing its commitment to maternal and child healthcare.
The club’s President, Christiana Okenla, who spoke at the event, emphasised that investing in the health of mothers and children is a humanitarian duty and a vital drive for Nigeria’s socio-economic future.
She said that maternal and child health remains a core pillar of Rotary International because thriving communities depend on healthy families.
“When we take care of our children, we are securing the future of our nation. Healthcare is as important as food because health is wealth. A healthy child today will become a productive citizen tomorrow, and that is how we build a stronger economy.” Okenla said.
The initiative, which launched its first phase in July 2025, provided free medical screenings like sickle cell and blood sugar tests, and also distributed insecticide-treated mosquito nets.
The second phase scaled up efforts by distributing essential maternal and baby care kits containing diapers, wipes, flannels, clothing, and feeding utilities, among others.
”Our goal is to give every child a safe start in life while supporting mothers with the basic materials they need to care for their babies,” Okenla added, while urging parents to prioritise routine immunisations and sanitation.
She expressed gratitude to international partners, specifically the Rotary Club of Winnipeg and Rotary Club of Winnipeg Golden (District 5550, Canada), for their cross-border collaboration.
Rotarian Agnes Okereke echoed similar sentiments, noting that the outreach combined material support with vital education on personal hygiene and child welfare.
”Every item in the baby bag was carefully selected and packaged with love. Beyond distributing the kits, we focused on educating mothers on child welfare and the importance of maintaining a clean environment.” Okereke noted.
