Lagos, Nigeria– The air was filled with excitement and gratitude as the Festus Fajemilo Foundation (FFF) successfully concluded its “Empowerment for Self-Reliance (EMSER)” project with the presentation of work tools and equipment to 30 empowered parents of children with disabilities (CYWDs). The grand event, which took place at Rita’s Hotel & Suites, St. Joseph’s Hall, Charity Road, New Oko-Oba, Abule Egba, Lagos, marked a significant milestone in the journey toward economic empowerment and self-sufficiency for these parents.
The EMSER initiative, designed to uplift and transform the lives of parents of CYWDs in Lagos and Osun States, provided three months of intensive skills training from August to November 2024. With funding from the Liliane Foundation and support from The Leprosy Mission Nigeria, the program aimed to equip parents with practical skills and resources to enhance their income-generating capacity and ensure better care for their children with disabilities.
Transforming Lives Through Economic Empowerment
Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of Festus Fajemilo Foundation and Project Lead, Afolabi Fajemilo, emphasized the transformative nature of the EMSER initiative. He highlighted that the project was not just about skill acquisition but about reshaping the economic landscape for families of children with disabilities.
“The EMSER project was meticulously designed to create a lasting impact in the lives of these parents. Out of 41 parents who showed interest, 30 successfully underwent rigorous training in their chosen skills, proving their dedication and resilience. Beyond skill acquisition, they were also trained in social media marketing to leverage online platforms for business growth. Today, as we hand over these tools and equipment, we are giving them the means to translate their knowledge into tangible economic benefits,” he stated.
Fajemilo urged the beneficiaries to maximize the opportunity, sustain their new businesses, and ensure that their children with disabilities benefit from the fruits of their labor. He expressed profound appreciation to the Liliane Foundation for its financial support and The Leprosy Mission Nigeria for its partnership in driving the initiative forward.
A History of Impact: FFF’s Journey with Liliane Foundation
Project Officer Abimbola Adekuoroye provided an insightful presentation on the long-standing partnership between FFF and the Liliane Foundation, which dates back to 2009. She highlighted the extensive support received, initially through the Daughters of Charity St. Vincent De Paul and now through The Leprosy Mission Nigeria. Over the years, a remarkable 103 children with disabilities have benefitted from the foundation’s grants, which have covered education, healthcare, livelihood, and social inclusion, all aimed at fostering resilience and independence.
Adekuoroye stressed that FFF’s commitment to holistic empowerment goes beyond the children, acknowledging the essential role of parents and caregivers in sustaining long-term development. “It is not just about the children; parents also need to be economically stable to provide the necessary support. That is why initiatives like EMSER are crucial,” she added.
Dignitaries Applaud FFF’s Initiative
The event drew the attention of notable dignitaries and stakeholders in the disability and social development sectors. Among them were Mr. Pius Ogbu, Head of Operations at The Leprosy Mission Nigeria (TLMN); Mr. Akeem Kilani, Director of Social Development & Integration at the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), who represented the General Manager; Hon. Alhassan Makinde, former Lagos State House of Assembly member representing Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency 1; community and religious leaders; business entrepreneurs; and law enforcement representatives.
Delivering a goodwill message, Mr. Pius Ogbu commended the Festus Fajemilo Foundation for its transparent and impactful execution of the EMSER project. “FFF has set a high standard for disability inclusion and empowerment. Since our partnership with them began in 2021, they have consistently demonstrated excellence in program implementation, and we are proud to be associated with them,” he remarked.
Mr. Akeem Kilani, representing LASODA, praised Afolabi Fajemilo’s dedication and credibility in disability advocacy. He encouraged beneficiaries to utilize their skills and equipment effectively, warning against the common tendency among some parents to abandon opportunities after receiving support.
Other dignitaries, including the Divisional Police Officer of New Oko-Oba Police Station and the Chief Imam of New Oko-Oba Central Mosque, echoed similar sentiments, urging the beneficiaries to remain committed and make the best use of their newly acquired resources.
A Moment of Gratitude: Beneficiaries Express Appreciation
In a heartfelt display of gratitude, seven beneficiaries took the stage to share their experiences and appreciation for the program. Many recounted how the FFF had previously supported their children with disabilities and expressed overwhelming joy that the foundation extended its support to the parents as well.
“This initiative has been a life-changing experience. We never imagined we would receive such immense support, not just for our children but for us as parents too. This is the first time an organization has thought beyond our children and considered our own economic empowerment,” one beneficiary stated, her voice filled with emotion.
Another parent added, “The tools we are receiving today will help us start or expand our businesses. We now have the means to work and provide for our families. Words cannot express our gratitude to FFF, Liliane Foundation, and The Leprosy Mission Nigeria.”
A Grand Finale with a Lasting Impact
The event, attended by 75 physical participants and streamed live on FFF’s Facebook page and Zoom.
The EMSER project stands as a testament to the power of strategic partnerships, grassroots empowerment, and inclusive economic development. Through initiatives like this, the Festus Fajemilo Foundation continues to break barriers and create opportunities, proving that with the right support, families of children with disabilities can achieve self-reliance and financial stability.
As the curtains closed on the event, one thing was clear: lives had been transformed, and the journey toward economic independence had just begun for these empowered parents.
