Community & Welfare
By: ANN OSATO
Benin City – In a show of compassion and community care, the Office of the First Lady of Edo State, coordinated by Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has delivered relief materials, including food items and baby essentials, to the family of Mr. Saviour Sunday and Mrs. Beauty Sunday, residents of Ugboro Street, Central Road, off Airport Road, Benin City.
The Sunday family, originally from Akwa Ibom State, had been trapped in a distressing medical emergency following the premature birth of their baby boy on May 29, 2025. The infant’s critical condition led to multiple hospital referrals, with mounting medical bills totalling ₦1.4 million, leaving the family stranded and unable to leave the hospital.
The Edo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, swiftly intervened and fully settled the hospital bill, allowing the baby and his parents to return home finally.
“Our Priority Is the Baby’s Health” – First Lady’s Office
Delivering the relief materials on behalf of Mrs. Anani was the Permanent Secretary, Government House, Mrs. Edith Sede, who visited the family at their residence. Speaking during the visit, she relayed the First Lady’s heartfelt message of concern and support.
“Our major concern is for the baby to be healed and healthy,” said Mrs. Anani through her representative. “If you notice anything, please go to the nearest hospital for proper medical check-up. Take good care of the baby and ensure he receives all his immunizations.”
Mrs. Anani also reaffirmed the State Government’s unwavering commitment to the health and welfare of all residents, regardless of their state of origin, adding that Governor Okpebholo continues to prioritise access to healthcare, especially for vulnerable families.
A Mother’s Gratitude
Overwhelmed with emotion, Mrs. Beauty Sunday expressed deep appreciation to the Edo State Government, Governor Okpebholo, and the Office of the First Lady for their timely intervention.
“We are so grateful. This support came when we had lost all hope. God bless the Governor and the First Lady for standing by us in our time of need,” she said.
A Model of Compassionate Governance
The visit and donation underscore the Edo State Government’s dedication to inclusive governance that supports citizens in critical times. The First Lady’s office has continued to champion social welfare programs aimed at uplifting families, especially mothers and children facing economic or medical hardship.
Community members who witnessed the visit applauded the initiative, describing it as a model of compassionate leadership worthy of emulation across the country.
PHOTO: 
Mrs. Edith Sede, Permanent Secretary, Government House, presents relief materials to Mrs. Beauty Sunday, while neighbours and well-wishers look on in support.
In Summary:
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Baby born prematurely on May 29, 2025
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The family incurred a ₦1.4 million hospital bill
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Edo State Government settled the bill in full
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Office of the First Lady delivered food, diapers, and support
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Governor Okpebholo praised for healthcare prioritisation
