A non-government organization, Irede Foundation, has called for increased consciousness about disability inclusion, promoting positive attitudes and behaviors towards people with disabilities (PWDs).
Addressing newsmen after an advocacy road walk in Lokoja on Saturday, Thompson Yamput, Kogi State Coordinator of Irede Foundation, said the organization has been giving hope to children who have suffered limb loss in the state.
Yamput explained that the purpose is to sensitize the public about the humanitarian service of the organization.
He noted that Irede Foundation, an internationally known non-governmental organization, offers free limbs to children below the age of 18 years who have suffered limb loss due to amputation, accident or ailments.
“One of the little boys that joined the road walk, Divine Samson, lost a leg to an incorrectly administered intramuscular injection in a health facility.
“Divine, who lives with his parents in Okene, suffered limb loss after the injection as his leg went bad within hours leading to amputation. Through Irede Foundation, he got a free limb and today, he walked together with us,” he said.
Yamput explained further that the Irede Foundation 2024 ‘Out On A Limb, OOAL, Advocacy Walk’ in Lokoja was part of a nationwide advocacy to bring together a global community of individuals dedicated to empowering and including persons with disabilities in the society.
“The IREDE Foundation, TIF, is an NGO focused on encouraging children living with limb loss, either acquired or congenital, to live a life of fulfillment.
“With the theme: ‘ Celebrating Every Step’, OOAL harnesses the power of people to create engagement, mobilize communities and inspire action.
“The OOAL Advocacy Walk is not only a platform for raising awareness, but also an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
“This year’s event specifically targets children and youths with disabilities, as well as the broader community of persons with disabilities.”
Yamput added that Irede Foundation offers fifty percent discount for adults above 20 years who need a limb.
He urged Kogi residents to take advantage of the opportunity and ensure no one is left behind.
The road walk tagged ‘Out On A Limb, OOAL, Advocacy Walk’ started at the organization’s contact office, Treasures Bakery and Confectionery, through Lokongoma road, in Lokoja.
The foundation commonly known as TIF, was established in Nigeria in 2012 to inspire action so that child amputees, their families and caregivers can live independent and limitless lives, through provision of prosthetic limbs to child amputees from ages 0-18, disability advocacy, support groups for caregivers, and skills development trainings for PWDs.
