Rotary Club Expands ‘Safe Start’ Initiative to Ikota, Boosting Maternal and Child Healthcare
By Cynthia Okere, Lagos
The Rotary Club of Lekki Golden has successfully completed the second phase of its “Safe Start” initiative in the Ikota community, Lagos, reinforcing its commitment to maternal and child healthcare.
Speaking at the event at Ikota Community inLagos, the club’s President, Christiana Okenla, emphasized that investing in the health of mothers and children is a humanitarian duty and a vital driver for Nigeria’s socio-economic future.
She noted 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, initially provided free medical screenings, sickle cell and blood sugar tests, and 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 prioritize routine immunizations 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.
On her part, Rotarian Agnes Okereke echoed these 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 reiterated.
Beneficiaries commended the timely intervention, noting that the support significantly eases the financial burden of newborn care amid current economic challenges and the rising cost of living.
They expressed deep gratitude, promising to make judicious use of the items provided.