There was a moment of shock and overwhelming emotion at the Federal University Teaching Hospital in Lokoja, Kogi State, on Friday, when a man identified as Adamu Muhammed Tenimu reportedly fainted upon learning that his wife had delivered a set of triplets.
According to The PUNCH, eyewitnesses at the hospital said the incident happened shortly after the delivery.
The news of three baby girls arriving at once was too much for Muhammed, who immediately slumped, prompting swift intervention by hospital staff and sympathisers, who helped revive him.
Speaking tearfully to reporters after regaining consciousness, Muhammed, an unemployed man, described the birth as a divine blessing that came with serious financial concerns.
“I’m grateful to God for giving us these beautiful babies, but I am also deeply worried. We didn’t expect triplets and we are not financially prepared. I can’t even afford the hospital bills right now, let alone basic items like baby food and diapers,” he said.
He explained that due to financial hardship, the pregnancy was not regularly scanned, leaving the family unaware of the multiple births.
“We only made arrangements for one child. I don’t know how we are going to manage with three at once,” he added, visibly distressed.
According to hospital sources, the babies were born healthy, weighing 1.8kg, 2.0kg, and 2.3kg respectively. They are currently under observation in the neonatal unit and are reportedly responding well.
Community members and relatives have appealed for assistance from both government and private individuals.
“This family needs urgent help. The babies are fine, but their parents don’t have the means to care for them adequately,” said Nuhu Alhassan, a colleague of the father. “We are appealing to the Kogi State Government, NGOs, religious bodies, and well-meaning Nigerians to come to their aid.”
Another sympathiser, Sikiru Olamide, stressed the importance of solidarity in such situations. “Childbirth should be a time of joy, not a source of fear. We urge everyone who can help to support this family in any way they can.”
Calls for support have since intensified, with friends and well-wishers beginning to mobilise donations of baby items and financial assistance.
The Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has also been urged to intervene and provide necessary support for the welfare of the mother and her newborns.
