This Frontline Friday, I am proud to highlight the remarkable progress of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, Project Oscar – Light for Life, Neonatal Jaundice Screening, Treatment, and Kernicterus Prevention Program, a leading initiative advancing neonatal health outcomes across Lagos State public health facilities through timely diagnosis, education, and care.

Project Oscar – Light for Life is redefining the standards of neonatal care through the seamless integration of frontline clinical training, maternal health education, and the deployment of diagnostic and phototherapy equipment. This model, which extends NNJ screening, detection and treatment to the PHC, strengthening secondary and tertiary referrals, ensures that every newborn receives the earliest possible assessment and that every case of elevated bilirubin is met with swift, protocol-aligned intervention.

Since February 2025, over 3,116 newborns have been screened for elevated bilirubin using bilistrips and transcutaneous bilirubinometers, achieving 100% coverage across participating facilities. With over 300 healthcare professionals trained and calibrated phototherapy units deployed, the programme has achieved an impressive 92.7% detection and treatment rate, ensuring timely and effective care for affected newborns. These results affirm the strength of our neonatal system and our commitment to referral readiness and continuity of care at every level.

Crucially, the programme recognises that self-care action begins with informed mothers. To date, over 43,800 women have participated in structured #NNJ health talks and outreach sessions, receiving practical guidance on recognising early signs of jaundice and navigating wellbeing pathways with confidence.

Rooted in the lived experience and advocacy of Oscar Anderson, supported by our WBFA social impact partners Reckitt and delivered in partnership with SCIDaR – Solina Centre for International Development & Research, NEST 360, and the Lagos State Ministry of Health and Lagos State Govnment, Project Oscar – Light for Life reaffirms that no child should suffer the consequences of preventable harm, and every family should be empowered to begin life with light, dignity, and hope.