Lagos Govt urges parents to prioritise special needs education, care
In a call to action, the Lagos State government has urged parents to put the education, health, and overall well-being of children with special needs at the forefront of their priorities.
Permanent Secretary of Lagos State Health District 1, Dr. Olufunmilayo Bankole emphasised the critical nature of this issue during the inaugural conference organised by Treasured Kids Foundation (TKF) in Lagos on Tuesday.
“Congenital abnormalities, while not common, pose serious challenges for those affected and their families.
“These conditions often arise from genetic disorders at birth, impacting not only the individual but also placing an emotional and financial strain on their families,”Bankole stated.
The conference, themed “Raising a Community of Change with One,” served as a platform to raise awareness about the care and prevention of congenital and genetic disabilities in African children aged 0 to 12.
Bankole highlighted the importance of empowering families, stating, “Parents need to understand the right nutrition and treatment for their special needs children. They require support from healthcare and education sectors to ensure these children receive appropriate care and education.”
The state government has initiated various policies and established agencies, including the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) and the inclusive health insurance programme, Ilera Eko, to cater to the needs of individuals living with disabilities.
“Lagos State is a leader in catering to people with disabilities. We have numerous resources available, but families must take proactive steps to utilise them,” Bankole added.
Sharing her personal journey, founder of TKF, Oluronke Kalejaiye, recounted her experiences as a parent of a child with a rare neuromuscular disease known as Myotubular Myopathy (MTM).
“Treasured Kids Foundation was born from our experience and exposure as we navigated this complex journey. Our mission is to break down the stigma surrounding disabilities and promote early diagnosis and intervention.
“We hope to create a community where children with special needs can receive the support they deserve,” she stated.
Kalejaiye noted that the foundation aims to drive awareness about conditions that are often overlooked.
Chief Communication Officer of TKF, Pharm. Sarah Akerele, reiterated the necessity of community support in eradicating stigma and educating the public about congenital abnormalities.
“It’s essential that we work together to build an inclusive society for all children,” Akerele said.
The conference attracted a diverse audience, including religious leaders, community development association members, healthcare workers, and youth representatives, all united in the mission to create a more accommodating environment for children with special needs in Lagos.
The Lagos State government’s concerted effort to prioritise the education and health of special needs children points to a growing awareness of the unique challenges these families face, as well as a commitment to fostering a more inclusive society.
