LAGOS,Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Punuka Foundation has intensified its advocacy for greater inclusion and support for neurodiverse children, urging both government and society to take deliberate steps to improve their welfare and unlock their potential.
Speaking during the foundation’s flagship Annual Walk for “super special children,” Executive Director/Trustee of the Foundation, as well as the Managing Partner of Punuka Attorneys Solicitors Mrs. Elizabeth Idigbe, emphasised the need for increased awareness and acceptance of neurodiverse individuals in society.
She said: “The walk is to bring awareness to the public that these children are real. They exist. They live with us. We don’t need to pretend we don’t know they live with us. They need help to maximise their potential.”
Mrs. Idigbe highlighted the financial burden faced by many families, noting that therapies required for neurodiverse children, ranging from behavioural to occupational support, are expensive.
“Many parents cannot afford the care because it is quite costly. Supporting institutions that cater to these children will go a long way in helping them,” she added, calling on individuals, organisations, and government agencies to contribute.
She further stressed the importance of strengthening legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms to protect the rights of persons with disabilities. While acknowledging that Nigeria has commendable laws on paper, she noted that implementation remains a major challenge.
“The laws are very good, but enforcement has been a problem. The agencies responsible often lack the resources and funding needed to act effectively,” she said.
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Mrs. Idigbe also urged employers in workplaces to adopt inclusive hiring practices and employ persons with disabilities.
“They can work. Even if it’s one or two people, employ them. Inclusion must be intentional,” she said.
Comparing Nigeria with developed countries, she noted their governments provide substantial funding, housing, and long-term support for neurodiverse individuals, an approach she believes Nigeria should emulate.
The foundation’s efforts, she explained, are driven by a desire to give back to society and address a gap often overlooked.
“Many people don’t focus on children with neurodiverse challenges. We decided to do something about it,” she said, recounting how the foundation began by training educators and building capacity across schools.
According to her, the initiative expanded to include infrastructure support for schools, ensuring accessibility for children with mobility challenges, as well as the establishment of the Punuka Child Care Centre, a facility offering therapy, education, and boarding services.
A Partner at Punuka Attorneys and Solicitors, Mr. Nnamdi Oragwu, called for increased government investment in facilities and specialised personnel.
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“There should be more schools and facilities to cater to these children. Public infrastructure must also be designed with inclusivity in mind,” he said.
Mr. Oragwu echoed concerns about weak enforcement of existing laws, stating, “Nigeria does not lack laws; it lacks enforcement.”
Executive Director Finance and Strategy at Punuka Attorneys and Solicitors, Mrs. Angela Ezenweani, said the annual walk serves as a key awareness tool aimed at changing societal perceptions.
“There has been progress from the days when such children were misunderstood, but more awareness is still needed. These children can achieve great things if given the opportunity,” she said.
She cited examples of neurodiverse individuals excelling in creative arts and professional roles, stressing that society must shift from pity to empowerment.
“We want people to believe in them and love them. They can attain great heights,” she added.
Meanwhile, the Head of Unit, Inclusive Special Unit at Eleko Methodist Primary School, Adeniyi Abiodun, noted that Lagos State has made strides in inclusive education, with dozens of units established across primary and secondary schools.
“The goal is to integrate these children into society, help them discover their abilities, and ensure they are not marginalised,” he said.