Abuja, Nigeria – In a powerful and emotional celebration of this year’s Children’s Day, disability advocacy organization TAF Africa, in partnership with the Legend Golden Care Foundation, hosted an inclusive sports and advocacy event in Abuja, calling for greater inclusion of children with disabilities in national life.
Held under the theme “Every Child Matters: From Rhetoric to Reality”, the event brought together children with and without disabilities to participate in games, storytelling, mentorship sessions, and advocacy campaigns — all designed to foster unity, amplify the voices of marginalized children, and promote a future where inclusion is truly lived, not just spoken.
The high-impact event drew attention from dignitaries, parents, caregivers, advocates, and children alike. Among the key highlights was the deeply personal and inspirational story shared by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, who revealed his own struggles with learning difficulties and disabilities growing up.
“I would have dropped out of school if someone hadn’t picked me up,” the Minister shared candidly. “That is why I take every matter concerning disability seriously. I stand as living proof that disability is not inability.”
Professor Yilwatda, who today serves as both a professor and minister, emphasized the importance of early support systems for children with disabilities. He urged parents and caregivers to encourage their children, regardless of their challenges, and assured the audience that the federal government is deeply committed to inclusive policies through the Commission for Persons with Disabilities and other intervention programmes.
“I look forward to seeing many of these children become CEOs, governors, and even President someday. Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s New Hope Agenda, we are committed to ensuring that no child is left behind.” he said.
Inclusion Through Play
The inclusive sports and play activities formed the heart of the celebration, as children with disabilities played side-by-side with their peers in a joyful atmosphere. The event broke barriers and sent a strong message that disability should never be a reason for exclusion.
Jake Epelle, CEO and Founder of TAF Africa, explained the vision behind the initiative.
“This year, we chose to spotlight children with disabilities in a unique way. By including them in play with other children, we are promoting a culture where inclusion is natural, not an exception. This is about amplifying their voices, promoting their rights, and showing that inclusion should be the norm, not a favour.”
He noted that too often, national events like Children’s Day overlook the needs and presence of children with disabilities. This event, he said, aims to rewrite that narrative.
“Sports is not just for fun; it’s a powerful tool for advocacy, inclusion, and building confidence. We are already working on an even bigger inclusive event for next year,” Epelle added.
Changing the Narrative
Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Kanayo Olisa Metuh, Executive Director of the Legend Golden Care Foundation, described the event as a “novel experience” and a model for how national celebrations should be organized moving forward.
“My hope is that this becomes the new normal. Children with disabilities should not be separated or seen as different. They are capable, they are strong, and they can achieve anything they set their minds to,” she said.
Mrs. Metuh highlighted historical figures with disabilities who overcame the odds to make global impact, adding that today’s children deserve the same opportunity to thrive in an inclusive society.
Beyond the Celebration
TAF Africa, formerly known as The Albino Foundation, has a long history of advocating for persons with disabilities in Nigeria. The organization has previously paid school fees for over 250 children with disabilities and continues to run various empowerment, education, and advocacy programmes.
This year’s Children’s Day celebration stood out not only for its inclusive programming, but also for its powerful message: every child counts, and disability should never be a barrier to dreams.
As Nigeria moves forward, stakeholders hope that such events will serve as a blueprint for policy implementation, public engagement, and cultural transformation around disability inclusion.
