By Agbo Christian Obiora
LAGOS, Nigeria – In a powerful display of solidarity and compassion, The Irede Foundation’s annual advocacy walk brought the city of Lagos to life as government officials, corporate partners, media personalities, disability advocates, and hundreds of community supporters marched together in a vibrant 2-kilometer walk to raise awareness for children living with limb loss.
Themed around inclusion, empowerment, and hope, the event was more than just a symbolic walk—it was a bold step toward transforming public perception, strengthening support systems, and championing the rights of child amputees in Nigeria and beyond. The annual family-friendly walk, held in recognition of Limb Loss Awareness Month, once again proved to be a powerful vehicle for change.
Walking the Talk: A Rallying Cry for Inclusion
With banners flying high and music echoing through the streets, participants—many donning bright orange T-shirts—marched in unison, carrying a clear message: “There is Ability in Disability.” The energy was electric, but beneath the excitement was a profound purpose: to ensure that no child amputee is left behind.
Now in its several years of existence, the walk has evolved into a signature event for inclusion, bringing together celebrities, government stakeholders, and the private sector to rally behind one powerful cause—restoring mobility and dignity to children with limb differences.
Championing Lifelong Impact: 40 Million Naira Target to Transform Lives
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Crystal Chigbu, Executive Director and Founder of The Irede Foundation (TIF), shared the deeply personal roots of the initiative.
“TIF was born from my personal experience. My daughter was born without bones in her legs, and we had to make the difficult decision to amputate. As I walked that journey, I met many children like her. I knew then that I had to do something to end stigmatization, advocate for inclusion, and prove that children with disabilities can live full lives,” she said.
Crystal announced the foundation’s ambitious goal for 2025: to reach 60,000 people globally, engage 10,000 walk participants across Nigeria, and raise ₦40 million to fund prosthetic limbs and ongoing care for child amputees.
She emphasized the urgent need for media engagement and cross-sector collaboration, noting that awareness is just the beginning, and consistent support is what truly transforms lives.
“Once We Start, We Don’t Stop” – Sustaining the Journey
Mr. Kunle Akinkugbe, Chairman of the Foundation’s Board, stressed the long-term nature of prosthetic support for children.
“A child is growing, and very soon they will need a new limb. Once we take on the responsibility of extending a limb, we stay with them until adulthood,” he stated.
His words struck a chord with attendees, underscoring the Foundation’s unwavering commitment to lifelong prosthetic care and holistic support tailored to the evolving needs of each child.
Government and Stakeholders Pledge Continued Support
Representing the Lagos State Government, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogulunde, reaffirmed the state’s dedication to inclusion under the THEMES Plus agenda.
“We have vowed not to leave anyone behind,” he declared. “There’s ability in disability, and as a government, we take this seriously.”
Echoing his sentiments, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde, General Manager of the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), stressed the importance of collaborative efforts.
“Prosthetic limbs are expensive and often need to be replaced twice a year for growing children,” she said. “That’s a burden families cannot carry alone. This is why continuous partnerships are critical.”
She also spotlighted a new state initiative targeting elderly persons with disabilities, a demographic often ignored in disability-focused programs.
“For the first time, we were able to focus on persons above 60 who themselves use assistive devices. We are continuing that this year,” Oyetunde added.
The Corporate Sector Steps In: Moving from Donations to Opportunity
A strong call-to-action came from Mr. Basi Anari, Africa Manager at UPS Foundation, who urged corporate bodies to go beyond charity and invest in inclusive employment.
“We are not here to deliver packages. We are here to deliver impact,” he said passionately. “Let us make provision for these children to have real jobs. Let them wake up, dress up, and go to the office—just like everyone else.”
His message was met with thunderous applause, igniting a conversation about sustainable empowerment and economic inclusion for persons with disabilities.
Celebrating the Champions: Stories of Hope and Possibility
A key highlight of the event was the emotional celebration of five IREDE Champions—young beneficiaries of the foundation’s prosthetic support who have gone on to achieve incredible milestones.
- Adjoke Odukoya is studying prosthetics at the Federal College of Orthopedic Technology, determined to help others like herself.
- Precious Olaito is thriving in her third year at Olabisi Onabanjo University, defying every odd.
- Rachel Oye Bamiji, an aspiring artist, is studying Fine Arts, while another Rachel is pursuing Psychology to better understand and support others.
- Michael Alagba, a vibrant JSS2 student, wowed the crowd with his confidence, serving as a living symbol of resilience and determination.
Their stories drew cheers, tears, and standing ovations—powerful testaments to the transformative power of inclusion and support.
Looking Forward: Internship and Mentorship Opportunities
Also announced at the event was a new paid internship program sponsored by IHS, aimed at pairing amputee beneficiaries with professional mentors and caretakers.
“We’re not just supporting them academically; we want to build their future,” said an IHS representative. “We are investing in mentorship, career development, and real-life exposure.”
A Movement in Motion
The Irede Foundation’s walk is far more than a once-a-year event—it is a movement of empathy, inclusion, and advocacy. From prosthetic limbs to public awareness, from corporate support to government action, this initiative continues to bridge gaps and break barriers for children with disabilities.
As the crowd dispersed, hearts full and spirits lifted, one thing was clear: the journey for disability inclusion in Nigeria is gaining ground—and The Irede Foundation is leading the charge, one courageous step at a time.
