The Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), joined the global community on Tuesday, 6th October, 2026 to commemorate World Cerebral Palsy Day. The celebration, themed “Unique and United,” brought together children living with cerebral palsy, parents, caregivers, healthcare professionals and other stakeholders to promote awareness, inclusion and support.
The Chief Medical Director, Prof. John Okeniyi, in a goodwill message via Zoom, commended the organisers, parents, caregivers, healthcare workers and children for their contributions to the success of the event.
The Physician in Charge of Phase III and IV, Prof. Elijah Oyetola, described the occasion as a significant opportunity to celebrate the lives of children living with cerebral palsy and appreciate God for them. He noted that the children are gifts from God with a purpose to fulfil and encouraged parents to embrace them with joy and optimism. He assured them of the hospital’s continued commitment to providing appropriate medical support and appreciated caregivers and everyone contributing to the children’s growth and development.
The Head, Medical Social Services, Mrs Victoria Olaleye, described cerebral palsy as a lifelong condition affecting movement, posture and coordination, which manifests differently in each individual. She stressed that beyond a diagnosis, every person has a unique personality, sense of humour, abilities and voice. A person living with cerebral palsy can be a student, artist, worker, friend, son, daughter or future leader, and the condition should never define their entire identity. She called on families, healthcare workers, social workers, teachers, employers, communities and governments to work together to reduce stigma, promote early intervention and create inclusive spaces for children living with cerebral palsy.
A representative of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Mr Seyi Awokulude, described the theme as a call to embrace people living with cerebral palsy and treat them with dignity and compassion. He stressed the importance of inclusion in education, technology, employment and public representation, while urging stakeholders to address barriers to education, healthcare and community participation. He also called for greater awareness and concerted efforts to improve the standard of living of children living with cerebral palsy.
The Cerebral Palsy Multidisciplinary Team Lead, Dr Oluwatosin Olorunmoteni, delivered the welcome address and appreciated participants for their support. In her presentation, “Understanding Cerebral Palsy,” she explained that cerebral palsy comprises lifelong conditions affecting movement, posture and balance, resulting from differences in brain development or injury occurring before, during or after birth. She discussed the challenges and abilities associated with the condition and emphasised the importance of support and inclusion. According to her, the “uniqueness” in the theme recognises that every person living with cerebral palsy has individual abilities, aspirations, voices and ways of life. She called on families, professionals, teachers and communities to work together to ensure that no one is excluded.
A panel session provided parents and caregivers with an opportunity to ask questions and receive responses from professionals. Adolescents living with cerebral palsy also demonstrated their talents through fashion designing, customised clothing, dancing, singing and recitation, highlighting their creativity and abilities beyond their medical condition.
The Appropriate Paper-based Technology (APT) team displayed affordable assistive devices designed to support children with walking, sitting and standing. Made from locally available materials, the reusable equipment provides practical support and helps reduce the physical strain associated with carrying children from one place to another. The programme also featured interactive and recreational activities, allowing the children to relax, have fun and participate actively in the celebration.
Photo Credit: Jayeoba Funminiyi
