Ganiyu Hazmat, the Ogun State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, emphasized the importance of Nigerians showing support for disabled children.
Dr. Bukunola Akinlesi, the co-chair of Less Privileged Children Encouragement Initiative, highlighted that out of 10 million Nigerian out-of-school children, between five to seven million of them have disabilities.
Akinlesi expressed concern about the alarming number.
Both made their remarks at the 12th annual charity lecture and appreciation colloquium of the Less Privileged Children Encouragement Initiative held at the Bisi Rodipe Hall, Ijebu Ode, on Monday.
The charity lecture focused on the theme “Silent Struggles: Challenges and Coping Strategies for Parents of Children with Mental Health and Disability.”
The commissioner, who chaired the event, stressed that individuals have the responsibility to do what they can to positively impact others and to improve life and livelihoods for mankind.
He praised the charitable acts of the organization that hosted the annual lecture, particularly as a partner in providing basic amenities across the state, especially for the needs of school children and the larger community.
Ganiyu mentioned that the organization recently helped to restore the borehole of the Magbon community, Abeokuta, which had been non-functional for about 12 years, and also supported pupils of Obafemi Owode Local Government Primary School in the community.
He urged privileged individuals and corporate bodies to follow the initiative for the benefit of society and the general well-being of the people.
He acknowledged the generosity and commitment of individuals or groups who use their resources during this period of economic difficulty for the welfare of others.
The Commissioner praised Dr. Rotimi Akinlesi and his wife, Dr. Bukunola Akinlesi, for sustaining the dream of the initiative for over two decades despite the challenges.
Akinlesi expressed distress at seeing disabled children being mistreated by their non-disabled peers and adults.
Akinlesi called for society to speak out against discrimination and advocate for the rights of all children, regardless of their abilities.
