Two Non-Governmental Organisations, Engraced Ones and Vichel Parenteen, have called for greater acceptance of people living with cerebral palsy.
The appeal came during a public sensitisation in Igando-Ikotun Local Council Development Area (LCDA) on the importance of inclusion and empathy toward persons with cerebral palsy.
The NGOs held a Cerebral Palsy Awareness Prayer Walk as part of the 2025 commemoration on Saturday in Lagos.
The 2025 event, with the theme ‘Unique and United’, carried the hashtag #UniqueANDUnited to promote unity and understanding.
Founder of Engraced Ones, Dr Oluremi Omotunde, described cerebral palsy as a disorder of movement and posture that develops in infancy or early childhood.
She said there was no known cure, but effective management required medication for seizures, corrective surgeries, as well as physical and speech therapy.
Co-founder, Dr Green Omotunde, noted that drug and alcohol abuse could increase the risk of having children with cerebral palsy.
President of Vichel Parenteen, Mr Joe Uko, said the event was organised by Engraced Ones, a support group focused on prayer, advocacy, and sensitisation in collaboration with his initiative.
“Children with cerebral palsy have achieved great success despite their challenges. We must celebrate, protect and support them,” Uko said.
He also praised parents and caregivers for their resilience and sacrifices in caring for children with cerebral palsy.
Coordinator of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Igando-Ikotun Branch, Mr Muhammad Adesunkanmi, led members and affiliates in the walk.
The event marked the global Cerebral Palsy Day, held annually on Oct. 6, to celebrate achievements and advocate an inclusive society.
The awareness walk began in a motorcade from Igando-Ikotun LCDA, passing through Idimu Road, Ikotun Roundabout, Synagogue Church Junction, and back to the LCDA.
