Launch of Ojay Ajaifia Foundation ignites movement for inclusion and dignity
Abuja — The National Population Commission (NPC) has stressed the urgent need for situational data mapping to address the pressing realities faced by children with disabilities across Nigeria. According to the Commission, accurate and up-to-date data remains the foundation for building inclusive programmes, dismantling barriers, and creating policies that ensure no child is left behind.
This call was made on Sunday in Abuja by the NPC Chairman, Mr. Nasir Kwarra, during the official launch of the Ojay Ajaifia Foundation for Children with Disabilities (OFCD). Represented by the Deputy Director of Civil Registration and Statistics, Mr. Yusuf Saka, Kwarra emphasized that the Commission’s mandate goes beyond basic population figures, extending into areas that directly shape social inclusion.
“Data mapping can help identify barriers and develop targeted innovations. With accurate data, we can identify priority areas, allocate resources, build inclusive programmes and policies, and measure progress and long-term impact,” Kwarra said.
He noted that children with disabilities continue to face systemic barriers in education, healthcare, and public participation, adding that without the right data, interventions risk being generic and ineffective.
A Movement for Change
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the Ojay Ajaifia Foundation for Children with Disabilities (OFCD), a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting dignity, opportunity, and visibility for children with disabilities.
Founder, Mrs. Ojay Ajaifia, described the foundation as “a movement for change” born out of a deep passion to confront neglect, discrimination, and stigma faced by children with disabilities in Nigeria.
“Every child, regardless of disability, deserves dignity, opportunity, visibility, hope, and a chance to thrive. We are not merely launching a foundation; we are igniting a movement for change. Every child with a disability is a star. With support, stars can rise and shine brightly,” Ajaifia declared to thunderous applause.
She further urged government agencies to enforce accessibility standards in schools, hospitals, and public buildings, lamenting that many facilities remain inaccessible to children and adults who use wheelchairs.
Data Mapping: A Critical Next Step
In a significant announcement, OFCD revealed plans to embark on a data mapping programme specifically focused on children with disabilities. The initiative seeks to generate fresh, reliable statistics to guide interventions, noting that most of the data captured in previous censuses has become outdated as those children have grown into adults.
Stakeholders at the event welcomed the development, noting that data-driven strategies are vital to shaping responsive educational systems, healthcare delivery, and social protection policies.
Voices for Inclusion
Several notable advocates for disability rights spoke passionately at the event.
Ms. Lois Auta, founder of the Cedar Seed Foundation, called on the government to create specific budget lines within the Ministry of Education to fund inclusive infrastructure and services. She outlined the “4Es” crucial for shaping the future of children with disabilities: Education, Enablement, Empowerment, and Encouragement.
“Inclusion at the planning stage will improve enrolment, curriculum access, and learning outcomes for children with disabilities,” Auta said.
Adding a deeply personal dimension to the event, Ms. Onyinyechi Eberegu, a polio survivor, moved the audience with her story of resilience. From being discriminated against and nearly written off, she rose to become her family’s first university graduate.
“Disability isn’t a death sentence — it’s simply a different way of living. With love, support, and the right environment, every child with a disability can thrive and lead a life full of purpose, pride, and dignity,” she encouraged.
She urged parents to stop hiding their children with disabilities, stressing that early support and exposure could change the trajectory of their lives.
Towards an Inclusive Future
The launch of the Ojay Ajaifia Foundation and the strong commitment from the NPC mark what many describe as a turning point in disability advocacy in Nigeria. By combining data-driven policy with grassroots advocacy, stakeholders hope to dismantle the barriers that have long denied children with disabilities the opportunities they deserve.
As discussions continue, one message rang loud and clear: children with disabilities are not problems to be managed but potentials to be nurtured. With accurate data, deliberate policies, and collective action, Nigeria can create a society where every child—regardless of ability—has the chance to shine.
