There was high drama at the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Lokoja, Kogi State, on Friday, as a man, Adamu Muhammed Tenimu, reportedly fainted upon receiving the unexpected news that his wife had delivered a set of triplets all girls.
Eyewitnesses recount how Tenimu, overwhelmed by emotions, slumped shortly after being informed of the multiple births. Hospital officials and sympathisers promptly intervened, successfully reviving him.
The new mother and her triplets are said to be in stable condition, but financial worries cloud the family’s joy.
Speaking to journalists after regaining consciousness, Tenimu, a job seeker, expressed his deep-seated concerns over the financial implications of raising three newborns.
“I thank God for this miracle, but I am confused and sad. I didn’t know we were expecting triplets. Right now, we don’t even have the means and financial capacity to pay the hospital bills, let alone care for three babies at once,” he said, breaking into tears.
According to Tenimu, the pregnancy was initially thought to be a single birth, as his family had not been able to afford regular ultrasound scans.
“This blessing is huge, but so is the burden. I don’t even have money to buy diapers or baby food. I don’t know where to start,” he lamented.
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Onlookers who confirmed the situation urged well-meaning Nigerians, the government, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to support the family with medical supplies, nutrition, and financial aid.
Friends and well-wishers have begun mobilising assistance for the family, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.
“The babies are healthy, but this family needs help. We are calling on the government, NGOs, religious groups, and well-meaning Nigerians to support them,” a family member pleaded.
Mr. Nuhu Alhassan, a colleague of Tenimu, also called on the Kogi State Government and the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to intervene.
“The father is a law-abiding, hardworking man, and this situation deserves attention,” he said.
Calls have also gone out to philanthropic individuals and organisations to donate baby essentials, food supplies, and funds for hospital expenses.
“The joy of childbirth should not be overshadowed by fear of survival. We must stand together as a people and support this family,” said Sikiru Olamide, another concerned individual.
The triplets, weighing 1.8kg, 2.0kg, and 2.3kg, respectively, have been placed under observation at the hospital’s neonatal unit and are responding well.
