The founder of the Lady Atinuke Oyindamola Memorial Home, Mrs Else Akerele, has called on the government at all levels to support every special needs children to live, dream and be educated.
Akerele made the appeal during the press briefing to mark 2025 Awareness Weeks Programme for the memorial home in Badagry, Lagos.
The theme of this year event is entitled: “Every Child Matters, Every Voice Counts”.
The Memorial Home is a non-governmental, non-profit organization in Lagos, Nigeria, that cares for persons with mental disabilities.
According to her, for too long, children with special needs have been overlooked, their voices silenced by stigma, neglect, or lack of opportunities.
“Every child has the right to live, dream, to be educated, to be cared for, and above all, to be heard.
“At our Memorial Home, we believe strongly that disability does not define destiny.
“With love, support, and inclusion, these children can thrive and contribute meaningfully to society,” she said.
Akerele said the 2025 theme is more than just words. “It is a call to action a reminder to us all that every child, regardless of ability, background, or circumstance, is precious in the eyes of God and in the heart of society.
“I urge corporate organisations, and kind-hearted Nigerians to partner with the home by donating funds and items.
“This support will enable them to properly care for children living with neuro-divergent conditions at the facility,” she said.
On the awareness programme, she said the programme had been carefully designed to create awareness. dialogue, and partnership.
“Through seminars, workshops, talent showcases, and community engagements, we aim to build bridges of understanding between children with special needs and the wider society.
“That together, we can build a society where no child is left behind,” she said.
Akerele said the activities would start with charity walk on Nov.8, at Igbo-Elerin axis, Lagos State
“There will be excursion on Nov.11,at Arakhab Resort along Seme Badagry expressway while seminar will be on Nov.15 at Oki Medical Centre in Ibereko, Badagry.
“Thanksgiving ceremony of the event will be held on Nov.16, at Liberation Power Bible Ministry, Agunmo in Badagry,” she said.
She thanked all stakeholders including parents, caregivers, government agencies, faith communities and civil society organizations who continue to stand with them in the journey of inclusion.
Mr Patrick Akintunde, the administrator of the home, called on government, the media, health professionals, educators and members of the public to join them in creating a society where inclusion is not just spoken about but practiced.
According to him, together we can build a world where all children, regardless of ability can live, learn and thrive.
