An Ebonyi-based civil society organization, Give Back Smile (GBS), has appealed to both the Ebonyi State Government and the Federal Government of Nigeria to improve access to quality education and healthcare services for people with special needs.
The group made the call in a communique jointly signed by its Convener, Mrs. Ogeri Idika, and Secretary, Dr. Rosemary Nwachi, and made available to newsmen in Abakaliki on Friday.
According to the communique, caring for children with special needs in Nigeria remains a major challenge, with many parents and caregivers emotionally and financially overwhelmed due to the constant attention and medical support required by their wards.
GBS emphasized the need for the Ebonyi State Government to integrate the rights and welfare of persons living with disabilities (PLWDs) into its development agenda. The organization noted that neglect and lack of inclusion in social and infrastructural planning have worsened the living conditions of special needs individuals in the state.
“We have observed that many public buildings and roads in Ebonyi lack provisions such as ramps and pedestrian bridges for persons with disabilities. This exclusion prevents them from enjoying equal access to public services,” the group stated.
The civic organization also lamented the absence of special needs schools and inclusive education policies, stressing that most mainstream schools in Ebonyi do not accommodate children with disabilities.
On healthcare, the group decried the lack of occupational and speech therapists in state hospitals, describing the situation as “a serious gap” in the health system that affects the overall well-being of special needs children.
“The cost of caring for a special needs child is very high, considering the multiple specialists, assistive devices, and medications required. Yet, every special needs child deserves a right to life, education, and happiness,” GBS added.
The group, therefore, called for policy reforms, increased budgetary allocations, and public awareness campaigns to promote inclusion and equality for persons living with disabilities in Ebonyi State.
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