Abuja: The Engraced Ones Prayer Support and Advocacy Initiative, a non-governmental organization, has sought a partnership with the News Agency of Nigeria to amplify awareness and advocacy efforts for children living with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Representatives of the organization made this appeal during a courtesy visit to the NAN headquarters in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the representatives highlighted their ongoing programs to tackle challenges faced by children with special needs and their families. Chinelo Akintola, the Assistant Executive Director, explained that the organization supports children with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, dyslexia, and other developmental conditions, with a focus on inclusion, empowerment, and advocacy.
She noted that the organization operates from Kurudu, Abuja, primarily concentrating on rural communities where stigma and limited resources often force parents to keep children with disabilities indoors. Akintola emphasized the need for funding and land from the Federal Government and well-meaning Nigerians to establish a larger center to expand services for children with special needs.
Ayobami Adefioye, the Project Manager, stated that the organization conducts advocacy and sensitization campaigns in markets, churches, and mosques to educate the public and discourage discrimination against children with disabilities. Adefioye also mentioned that they provide vocational training in photography, catering, shoemaking, hat making, and tailoring, thus changing negative perceptions about disability.
The Admin and Public Relations Officer, Kohol Terkura, acknowledged the emotional, psychological, and financial challenges parents of children with special needs face, often exacerbated by stigma and misinformation. Terkura stressed the importance of reframing disability narratives and described neurodiversity as a normal part of human existence, while highlighting the mentorship and empowerment provided to parents by the organization.
Responding to the NGO’s appeal, the Managing Director of NAN, Malam Ali Muhammed Ali, assured the organization of the agency’s support in amplifying its advocacy and activities. Represented by the Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Mufutau Ojo, Ali underscored NAN’s nationwide and international presence and partnerships that provide it with global reach. He emphasized NAN’s commitment to covering women, children, health, and gender issues, urging the organization to keep NAN informed of its programs for media support.
NAN reports that the Engraced Ones has been operating for over 10 years, promoting inclusive education, skills development, livelihood support, and social acceptance for children and young persons with disabilities. The organization’s activities include disability awareness walks, inclusive sports competitions, special needs clubs in schools, runway events, and community and religious outreach programs.
In attendance were Mr. Wole Sogunle, Deputy Editor-in-Chief and Ombudsman, and Hajia Hadiza Aliyu, Deputy Editor-in-Chief and Head of Newsroom.