Lagos: Dr Efunbo Dosekun, co-Founder of Babies Matter Medical Centre (BMMC), a subsidiary of Outreach Signature Hospitals in Lagos State, has called for more collaboration to ensure improved critical care for preterm babies. Dosekun, a Paediatrician and Neonatologist, made the call in the hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), during a 'graduation party' for two babies born at 25 weeks, weighing 650g and 700g respectively. According to News Agency of Nigeria, preterm babies are those born alive before 37 weeks of pregnancy, as defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO). These births are categorized by gestational age: extremely preterm (born before 28 weeks), very preterm (28 to less than 32 weeks), and moderate to late preterm (32 to 37 weeks). Dosekun emphasized the importance of the first ten minutes of life for a preterm baby, crucial for their survival and to prevent disabilities. She highlighted the need for serious attention and understanding of the unique physiology of these babies. Dos ekun called for collaboration among obstetricians, paediatricians, neonatologists, and neonatal nurses, stressing that inadequate training can lead to a rise in disabled children, a significant public health concern. The two preterm babies of Mr and Mrs Kunle Adeosun currently weigh 2.18kg and 2.10kg, after receiving care at BMMC for over 14 weeks. Dosekun noted that the Outreach Group of Hospitals has saved 260,000 children, including 2,600 newborns and 600 preterm babies, by offering world-class neonatal services. Dr Zanaib Mudashiru, co-Founder and Clinical Lead of BMMC, stated that the centre's investment in advanced technology and human capacity has been pivotal in providing critical care to extremely preterm babies. Mudashiru, a UK-trained paediatric and neonatology practitioner, credited the survival of the Adeosun twins to the teamwork and dedication of the BMMC staff and the parents' steadfastness. Despite the challenges, none of the babies required ventilation due to the advanced technology aidin g their breathing. As the twins prepare to leave the hospital, all vital functions are reportedly normal, and their parents have been educated on continuing care at home. The twins' parents, overwhelmed with joy, expressed gratitude to God and the BMMC team for their professionalism and dedication. Mrs Tolulope Adeosun also thanked NEM Health, a health maintenance organization, for their support in ensuring comprehensive care for her children. After 18 years of marriage, the Adeosuns are finally taking home Ayanifeoluwa and Araifeoluwa after their 14-week stay at BMMC.