LASODA CELEBRATES SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN, CAREGIVERS, PARENTS 

… Harps on Need for More Support, Understanding 

The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) today hosted over 150 children with special needs, caregivers, and owners of homes in an atmosphere of fun to celebrate the uniqueness of the children and encourage their continued growth and inclusion. 

The programme, held at the Dr. Oluyomi Abayomi Finnih Recreational Park in Oregun, Ikeja, was organised in line with the state’s THEMES Plus Agenda with a focus on the social inclusion of children with disabilities.

Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tertiary Education, Mr. Adeniran Kasali expressed gratitude to the caregivers and parents for not isolating their children with special needs out of fear of discrimination. 

He emphasised that keeping these children at home limits their access to valuable privileges and socialisation opportunities, which are crucial for their mental and intellectual development. 

“By bringing their children out into the community, parents provide them with essential opportunities to grow and integrate into society”, he added. 

The Permanent Secretary, who was represented by the Deputy Director of Tertiary Education, Mrs. Olubunmi Ibidapo-Obe, further highlighted the importance of community support and understanding in fostering an inclusive environment, urging the society to continue breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes about disabilities while ensuring that every child has the chance to thrive. 

He called on all stakeholders to maintain their commitment to inclusivity, as continued support and engagement are vital for achieving long-term positive outcomes for children with special needs.

Addressing the special needs children, their parents and caregivers at the event, the General Manager of LASODA, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal emphasised the importance of supporting children with special needs, ensuring they are included and empowered in the community. 

She highlighted the state government’s efforts in promoting the rights and well-being of people living with disabilities, noting that the programme was a step towards fostering a more inclusive society.

The event, according to the General Manager, aimed to foster a supportive community and highlight the importance of understanding and embracing diversity, reinforcing the government’s commitment to inclusivity and social welfare. 

She encouraged the parents of children with special needs to accept the reality of the ‘special nature’ of their children instead of dwelling on the type of children they hoped for. 

This, she said, will assist them in providing adequate care for the special children and also improve their well-being. 

“By embracing the unique needs and strengths of their children, parents can better tailor their support and interventions, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment. This approach not only benefits the children but also enhances family dynamics and overall quality of life”, she opined. 

The resource persons at the event took turns enlightening participants on how to best cater to the unique needs of children with disabilities. They made presentations on several topics including the “Importance of Therapy” delivered by Mr. Oni Ayooluwa, an Occupational Therapist at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH; “Psychology for Children with Disabilities and Their Parents” delivered by Mrs. Mabel Okoreafor, a Psychologist; “Importance of Education for Children with Special Needs” presented by Mr. Aliyu Azeez and “Self-Care for Parents of Children with Special Needs”, presented by Mrs. Adedoyin Otitoloju, CEO of Iya Ni Wura Foundation.

The celebration was attended by parents, caregivers, and representatives from several NGOs and support groups. 

Also present at the event were, the Executive Chairman of Lagos SUBEB, Dr. Hakeem Shittu, represented by Mrs. Hilda Twinx and The Permanent Secretary, Parastatal Monitoring Office, Mrs. Adetutu Ososanya, represented by Mr. Kola Olufuwa.

All the representatives reiterated the importance of inclusivity in the development of children with disabilities and commended the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs for championing the cause of Persons with Disabilities in Lagos State.

The event also featured various activities, entertainment, and interactive sessions designed to engage and uplift the children, while also providing a platform for their caregivers and families to network and share experiences.

One of the parents, Mr. David Adedigba lauded the Lagos State Government for the support, describing the event as a step in the right direction aimed at improving the quality of life for special needs children. 

According to him, the celebration, beyond mere words, demonstrated the state government’s commitment to ensuring that all children, regardless of ability, are provided with the opportunities to thrive.