Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria – An Abuja-based non-governmental organisation, Engraced Ones Prayer Support and Advocacy Initiative, has inaugurated two centres to provide education, therapy and skills training for children with cerebral palsy and other special needs.
The centres, located in Wuse Zone 3 and Garki Area 1, were inaugurated as part of activities marking World Cerebral Palsy Day, scheduled for October 6, with the theme, “Unique and United.”
Founder of the organisation, Bibora Yinkere, said the centres were established to promote inclusion, independence and a better quality of life for children living with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. “Cerebral palsy could affect posture, balance and movement,” Yinkere said, noting that some children may require physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and adaptive learning equipment to participate effectively in education.
She urged parents not to hide children with cerebral palsy or other disabilities but to enroll them in school and create opportunities for them to interact, learn and develop their abilities.
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Folake David, also urged parents to embrace children with cerebral palsy and ensure they have opportunities to participate fully in society.
David, who was represented by an Education Officer from the ministry, Momodu Tessy, 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.
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.
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