David Anyaele, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Abia State, Nigeria, Alex Otti, on People with Disabilities, has reiterated the government’s dedication to enhancing access to quality education and healthcare services for children afflicted with cerebral palsy and other Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Speaking in Umuahia during The Straight Child Foundation’s special March edition of the Parent Support Group to commemorate Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month 2024, themed “Being All That You Can Be,” Mr. Anyaele emphasised the societal challenges faced by PWDs. He urged parents of children with cerebral palsy to persist in raising awareness and supporting government efforts to eliminate stigma, discrimination, and other barriers faced by their children.
Highlighting the allocation of 20 and 15 percent of the budget to education and health, respectively, Mr. Anyaele stated the government’s commitment to prioritising the social sector. He affirmed that this aligns with Governor Otti’s vision of ensuring equitable access to quality education and healthcare services for all citizens, including those with cerebral palsy.
Furthermore, Mr. Anyaele reassured of the Otti administration’s commitment to fostering an inclusive society and improving the quality of life for PWDs and their families.
Dr. Chidomere Roseann, a Consultant Pediatrician/Child Neurologist at the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, discussed the importance of early detection and intervention for children with cerebral palsy. She outlined the treatment goal of managing symptoms to minimise disability progression, alleviate pain, and maximise independence for a fulfilling life.
Dr. Peace Amaraegbulam, the founder of TSCF and a consultant orthopaedic surgeon at FMC, Umuahia, highlighted the significance of Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month in uniting parents, individuals with cerebral palsy, and citizens to raise awareness and offer support.
Explaining the “GoGreen4CP” campaign, Dr. Amaraegbulam noted that the colour green symbolises hope, growth, and renewal, reflecting the resilience and strength of individuals living with cerebral palsy.
During the event, Mr. Dinichukwu Olise, a fourth-year medical scholar at Gregory University, Uturu, who also lives with cerebral palsy, shared his motivational success story. The event also included the nomination of parent representatives into TSCF’s CP awareness campaign and the distribution of gift items to children.
Cerebral palsy, a group of neurological disorders affecting movement, posture, and muscle coordination, stems from abnormal brain development or damage before birth. Individuals with CP may experience muscle stiffness, weakness, and balance and coordination difficulties.