The Lagos State Government has taken a major step toward advancing disability inclusion with the receipt of 88 specialized pediatric wheelchairs and other assistive devices for children with disabilities and special needs across the state.
The donation, made by the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), also includes 225 crutches, 360 eyeglasses, and play materials, all tailored to meet the specific needs of identified beneficiaries.
The official handover ceremony, held at the Lagos State Medical Store in Oshodi, brought together government officials, development partners, and caregivers committed to improving outcomes for vulnerable children.
Strengthening EPIC–BAWOP Framework for Inclusive Care
The intervention forms part of ongoing efforts under the Build A World of Play (BAWOP) programme and the state’s Early Pathway to Inclusive Care (EPIC) framework, both designed to strengthen early identification, intervention, and support systems.
Delivering the keynote address, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Dayo Lajide, represented by Dr. Ismail Abdus-Salam, said the initiative goes beyond a ceremonial handover.
“This is a reaffirmation of our commitment to inclusive care. Every child, regardless of ability, deserves to live with dignity, participate fully, and reach their potential,” she said.
She noted that assistive devices such as wheelchairs are not only mobility tools but enablers of education, social interaction, and improved quality of life for children, while also offering reassurance to caregivers.
CHAI Highlights Impact of Early Childhood Interventions
Speaking on behalf of CHAI, Dr. Chizoba Fashanu, Director of Programs and Essential Medicines, described the donation as another milestone in the organisation’s long-standing partnership with Lagos State since 2013.
“Early childhood remains the most critical stage of development, and timely support through mobility aids, inclusive play, and medical care can significantly improve outcomes,” she said.
She disclosed that the programme has screened over 115,000 children and reached more than 10,000 through play-based interventions, adding that each intervention creates a pathway for children to thrive.
Fashanu commended Lagos State for building a sustainable inclusive care system that will endure beyond donor-funded programmes.
Stakeholders Emphasise Rights, Dignity, and Access
In her remarks, the Director of Pharmaceutical Services, Pharm. Olabisi Okewole, described the initiative as a reflection of shared commitment to inclusive healthcare, stressing that access to assistive devices is critical to quality service delivery.
Similarly, the General Manager of the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), Dr. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, represented by Dr. Oluwafunmilayo Adekola, emphasized that disability inclusion is a fundamental human right.
She noted that early interventions play a crucial role in helping children achieve developmental milestones and improve overall wellbeing.
Beneficiary Shares Life-Changing Impact
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Ademola Mariam, whose seven-year-old son lives with cerebral palsy, described the wheelchair as transformative.
“This support is life-changing. It will improve my child’s mobility and participation in school activities,” she said, while appealing for continued therapeutic support, including leg casting and orthopedic aids.
Commitment to Scale Inclusive Health Interventions
In his closing remarks, the Head of Special Projects, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Tolu Ajomale, described the donation as a major milestone in Lagos’ inclusive care journey.
He called for sustained collaboration among stakeholders to expand interventions and reach more children across the state.
The Lagos State Government reaffirmed its commitment to building a health system that leaves no child behind, ensuring that every child, regardless of ability, is seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.
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