News Update
THE Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive care and social protection by celebrating Christmas with children living with disabilities at the Therapy Centre for Children with Disability, Oke-Oriomi, Ado-Ekiti.
The event, sponsored by the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, brought together children, parents and caregivers for a colourful, fun-filled celebration marked by singing, dancing and the presentation of gifts.
The highlight of the day was the appearance of Santa-Claus, who personally handed out gifts to the children because they are loved, valued and fully included like their peers in regular schools.
Speaking at the programme, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, urged parents to always appreciate and cherish their children, regardless of physical or intellectual challenges, describing every child as a special gift from God.
Princess Agboola praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his consistent love and support for persons with disabilities, noting that his concern for special needs children predates his assumption of office.
She said the Governor’s regular visits to special schools and therapy centres across the state demonstrate that disability issues are not political to him but a lifelong passion.
“For Governor Oyebanji, caring for persons with disabilities is beyond politics. He genuinely worries about how these children are coping and managing. This is something he has been doing even before becoming Governor. To him, it is a way of life,” she said.
The Special Adviser also commended parents for their support and perseverance, cautioning against discrimination, while appreciating staff of the therapy centre for their dedication and commitment to service, praying that their efforts would be divinely rewarded.
In his remarks, one of the beneficiaries, Toluwalase Adeyeye, expressed gratitude to Governor Oyebanji for his continuous support for persons with disabilities, particularly in the provision of food items and operational vehicles, and prayed for God’s continued blessings on the Governor and other supporters of the disability community.
Similarly, Mrs. Olubunmi Ibiteye, speaking on behalf of parents, thanked the Governor for establishing the therapy centre and prioritising special schools across Ekiti State.
She also commended the caregivers for the genuine love and care shown to the children.
The event was attended by key government officials, including Hon. Stephen Abimbola Senior Special Governor’s Office, Mrs. Funmilayo Fatoba, Senior Special Assistant on Rehabilitation and Mental Health, and the Senior Special Assistant on Social Inclusion, Alhaji Fatai Sulaiman among others.
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