- Recognises Sacrifices of Mothers
The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has celebrated the year 2022 Children Living with Disability Day, just as it also recognised and appreciated the immense contributions of mothers to the development of special children.
Speaking at the event tagged: “Investing in Our Children Means Investing in Our Future”, held at the Ndubusi Kanu Park, Alausa, Ikeja, the General Manager of LASODA, Mr. Oluwadamilare Ogundairo, said it is important to commemorate the Y2022 Children with Disability Day and acknowledge the sacrifices of their mothers.
Ogundairo stated that the mothers of children with special needs have always ensured that they get the support and encouragement required for individual development in contributing to the socio-economic progress of the State.
He explained that the programme was, therefore, designed to recognise and appreciate all mothers for their sacrifices and love for their children, especially those with special needs, adding that it is essential to periodically acknowledge the extra effort that parents put into raising their wards.
The General Manager lamented that mothers are usually castigated whenever there is an issue with childbirth or when the birthed child has any form of disability, noting that such mothers face challenges from insensitive remarks to stigmatisation and even abandonment from spouses.
“There is no way to reward these mothers for their determination and belief in their children than to let them understand we appreciate them with all of our heart and encourage them to keep hope alive as there is light at the end of the tunnel”, he said
Pointing out that the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is particular about the well-being of people living with disabilities regardless of age, status or sex, Ogundairo emphasised that Lagos will continue to develop policies and programmes aimed at championing inclusiveness where no one is left behind.
The Guest Speaker, Mrs. Folasade Ajayi, urged mothers to continue to find ways to empower their children with special needs.
Her words: “I encourage you to be courageous and strong, we all know it is not easy but you will agree with me that being born differently or disabled is not a guarantee for failure as there is ability in disability. With the right attitude and support, your child will live a life of worth and dignity”.
She advised parents to join good support networks where they can share experiences with other parents, saying it will give them the motivation to move ahead in the quest to give their children a better chance to succeed in life.
Ajayi also urged parents to educate their wards, advising that special children should be trained in vocations of interest to give them a sense of responsibility and identity.
At the event, awards were presented to outstanding mothers for their contribution to the well-being of their wards with disabilities while children also participated in lots of fun activities including dancing, singing, keyboard skills and cultural dance among others.
