In a significant event marking World Cerebral Palsy Day, the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC) hosted an engaging day focused on inclusion for individuals with cerebral palsy. The pediatric multidisciplinary team organised the celebration in collaboration with the Early Childhood Development Project.
Dr Oluwatosin Olorunmoteni opened the event with a welcome address highlighting the importance of World Cerebral Palsy Day.
She provided an overview of cerebral palsy, its causes, and the critical role of early detection in managing the condition. Dr. Olorunmoteni emphasised the need for societal inclusion of people with disabilities, urging a focus on their development to maximise their potential.
Prof. John Okeniyi, Chief Medical Director of OAUTHC, expressed the importance of providing opportunities for all children, regardless of their abilities. His message, delivered by Prof. Josephine Eziyi, the Chairman Medical Advisory Committee, called for communities to ensure that children with disabilities are seen, heard, and valued.
Keynote speaker Dr Immaculata Akpalaba, Director of the Office of Disability Affairs and Services at UNIMED, Ondo State, discussed “The Role of Institutions in Promoting Inclusion for Children with Disabilities.” She reiterated the uniqueness of every child and advocated for more disability-friendly schools in Nigeria.
Dr Akpalaba stressed the importance of training teachers and engaging parents to create inclusive educational environments.
Tobiloba Ajayi, founder of LETS CP CHILDREN LEARN NG, addressed the audience on “Educational Inclusion for Children with Disabilities.” She clarified that cerebral palsy is primarily a physical impairment, not an intellectual one. Ajayi urged parents to invest in the education of their children with cerebral palsy and to enrol them in mainstream schools that provide the necessary support. She advised that they are provided with lifelong training that will enable them to live a normal life when they become adults.
Representing the WHO state coordinator, Dr. Seun Fakoyejo advocated for equal rights and opportunities for individuals with cerebral palsy. He stressed the importance of integrating these individuals into society to ensure that no one is left behind.
There were further admonitions from Dr Saheed Oseni (Head, Paediatrics Neurology Unit), Mrs Olabisi Ajayi (Director Nursing Services), Marie Bontoux (Global Programme Director, Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health), and Mrs Hadiza Dako (from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare).
The event also featured testimonies from parents and caregivers, including Mr Bamisaye and Mrs Bolarinwa, who expressed gratitude to the OAUTHC multidisciplinary team for their unwavering support, care, and prompt response to their needs.
The event concluded with a question-and-answer session for parents and the presentation of awards to the speakers, celebrating their contributions to the cause of inclusion and support for children with disabilities.
