By Safia Abdulrahman
A non-governmental organisation, Engraced Ones Prayer Support and Advocacy Initiative, on Saturday inaugurated two centres in Abuja to provide education, therapy and skills acquisition for children with cerebral palsy and other special needs.
Speaking during the inauguration, the founder of the NGO, Mrs Bibora Yinkere, said the centres, located in Wuse Zone 3 and Garki Area 1, were inaugurated as part of activities marking World Cerebral Palsy Day, scheduled for Oct. 6, with the theme: “Unique and United.”
She said the centres were established to promote inclusion, independence and improved quality of life for children living with cerebral palsy and other disabilities.
“Cerebral palsy could affect posture, balance and movement.
“Some children might require physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and adaptive learning equipment to participate effectively in education,” she said.
Yinkere urged parents to stop hiding children with cerebral palsy and other disabilities, but instead enrol them in school and provide opportunities for them to interact, learn and demonstrate their abilities.
According to her, parents are the child’s first teachers and advocates, and should acquire the necessary skills to support their children’s development.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs Folake David, urged parents to embrace children with cerebral palsy and ensure that they were given opportunities to participate fully in society.
Represented by an Education Officer from the ministry, Mrs Momodu Tessy, David said children with special needs were an integral part of society.
“They are part of us. They are our children. So anywhere we are, anywhere we find them, let’s embrace them. Let’s encourage them. They can do it,” she said.
She called for increased awareness in schools and communities, early support and inclusive educational opportunities for children with disabilities.
David also urged stakeholders to replace stigma with practical support by creating opportunities for children with cerebral palsy to participate in education, social activities and skills development.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the inauguration of the two centres formed part of advocacy efforts for greater acceptance, inclusion and opportunities for persons living with cerebral palsy and other disabilities.
The centres were also designed to help beneficiaries develop confidence, independence and employable skills that would enable them to contribute meaningfully to society.(NAN)
Edited by Victor Adeoti
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