A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) based in Oyo State, Oakonsult Disabilities Outreach, has called on the media, philanthropists, and well-meaning Nigerians to support its ambitious plans to establish a state-of-the-art care facility for children with special needs.
The appeal was made during a courtesy visit to the management of Nigerian Tribune at its headquarters in Imalefalafia, Ibadan.
Speaking during the visit, the Country Director of the organisation, Itunu AdeIyun, said the visit became necessary to seek strategic partnerships that will help actualize the project.
According to her, the proposed facility, to be named “Oak Center Prime,” will serve as a comprehensive care and rehabilitation centre for 800 to 1,000 children living with disabilities.
She revealed that the Oolo community in Oriire Local Government Area of Ogbomoso, Oyo State, has donated 35 acres of land for the takeoff of the project, which is estimated to cost about $65,000.
“The Oak Center Prime is designed to provide therapy, rehabilitation, educational aids, communication tools, personal care equipment, and both residential and respite facilities for children with disabilities,” she said.
AdeIyun emphasized that the project, which is expected to be completed within the next five years, will not only offer critical services to children in need but also create employment opportunities for over 1,500 People.
She added, “The centre will offer holistic care addressing the spiritual, physical, emotional, and social well-being of children and young people with disabilities. Our goal is to create a model of inclusive care, advocacy, and empowerment that sets the standard for best practices in Nigeria.”
She further stated, “We are here to explore how we can collaborate with the media and other stakeholders to move the cause of disability care forward in our society.”
In response, the Editor of Nigerian Tribune, Mr. Debo Abdulahi, represented by the General Editor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, commended the NGO’s commitment to humanitarian service.
Adisa applauded the initiative, describing it as a timely and noble cause. He encouraged the organisation to remain steadfast in its mission, noting that some children with disabilities have sadly been abandoned or killed due to stigma and lack of support.
He assured that the Nigerian Tribune is ready to support and promote the initiative, in line with the legacy of the newspaper’s founder, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who was renowned for his service to humanity.
He concluded, “We will continue to support efforts that aim to improve the lives of Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWDs) in Nigeria. This initiative is a commendable step in the right direction.”
