The Child Care Trust (CCT) has made a passionate appeal to both government authorities and private sector organizations to take immediate and decisive action toward promoting educational inclusion for girls and children living with disabilities across Nigeria.
Memorial Event Highlights Urgent Need for Inclusion
This urgent call was delivered during the 20th memorial celebration honoring the late Chief Stella Obasanjo, former First Lady of Nigeria and founder of the Child Care Trust. The event took place at the CCT premises in Bwari, Abuja, serving as both a tribute to her legacy and a platform to address critical educational gaps.
Harmony Ibe, Director of Child Care Trust, emphasized that vulnerable children, particularly girls and those with disabilities, continue to face significant social ostracism and educational barriers. She stressed that policymakers must prioritize creating and enforcing inclusive educational policies that protect the rights and well-being of these children.
Mrs. Ibe explained that the memorial event served as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to ensure every Nigerian child has access to quality education and equal opportunities to thrive in society.
Student Performances Showcase Hidden Talents
The celebration featured various engaging activities that brilliantly displayed the talents and creativity of students from special schools across Abuja. Highlights included emotional song performances by the students, a dramatic playlet conveying strong messages of empathy and inclusion, and an extensive exhibition showcasing artwork and projects created by the children.
Among the key moments was the presentation of trophies to winners of an essay competition designed to inspire young minds about the importance of inclusivity in education. The competition attracted participation from five schools within Abuja, with results eagerly anticipated by attendees.
Chinedu Peter from Junior Secondary School Bwari 1 emerged as the overall winner, achieving a commendable score of 68 percent. Peniel Nissi from De-Gopherwood Montessori School secured second position with 63 percent, while Maryam Abdulrazaq from Triple Value Academy claimed third place with 57 percent.
Call to Action for Societal Change
Mrs. Ibe noted that while the event celebrated student achievements and academic contributions, it also highlighted the critical need for greater support and inclusive practices for all children, especially those with disabilities.
"The exhibition and performances showcased today are a testament to the incredible potential of individuals with disabilities," Mrs. Ibe stated. "Our society needs to embrace and support children with disabilities rather than discriminate against them. Many families experience challenges due to misconceptions surrounding disabilities, and it's vital to change this narrative. Girls and children with disabilities must have equal access to educational opportunities."
Programme coordinator Lucy Dickson emphasized the importance of collaboration between government and private schools to ensure adequate special educators are available for children with special needs. She encouraged parents and institutions to identify children with special needs early, noting that timely intervention can significantly impact their educational journey.
"Establishing legal protections for girls and children with special needs is crucial," Dickson asserted. "We must address the negative attitudes that persist in our society," she added, urging both parents and the broader community to advocate for and protect these vulnerable children.
The former First Lady of Edo State, Eki Igbinedion, praised Stella Obasanjo's commendable efforts and highlighted the enduring legacy of her Child Care Trust. She encouraged Nigerians to continue supporting children living with disabilities and to build inclusive structures that promote their well-being and development.
