Parents of children living with Cerebral Palsy (CP) have decried widespread stigmatisation and called on the government to establish a dedicated school to address the unique educational needs of their children.
Speaking in Ilorin during the 2025 World Cerebral Palsy Day, organised by the Ifeoluwa Cerebral Palsy Initiative in collaboration with the Kwara State Government, parents shared their experiences and challenges.
Mrs. Shukurat Afolabi, a mother of a child with CP, urged the state government to establish a specialised school for what she described as “cerebral palsy champions,” noting that existing institutions like the Kwara School for Special Needs do not adequately cater to children who require constant support.
“Although this may not happen immediately, the government should consider deploying ‘shadow teachers’—educators trained specifically to support children with cerebral palsy—into regular schools, and fund their services,” she said.
“Most private schools refuse to admit our children because they lack trained shadow teachers. Regular teachers aren’t equipped to handle their needs, and we can’t blame them for that. If the government can provide shadow teachers, even twice a week, it would make a significant difference.”
She also appealed for free physiotherapy sessions for children with CP and financial support for essential items such as diapers and expensive medications.
Another parent, Mrs. Oluwabusayo Olaoye, described the difficulties of caring for her son, Michael, who is unable to attend regular school due to his condition.
“I used to work as a banker, but I had to resign to care for him full-time. Many of us have left promising careers to become full-time caregivers. We need financial support—not just for ourselves, but also for schools that support our children.”
She encouraged other parents of children with CP to embrace their roles with pride and confidence, warning that hiding their children can negatively impact their self-esteem.
“The stigmatisation we face in public is overwhelming, as though our children have a contagious disease. I urge parents to carry their children proudly. Everyone has their own challenges—this is ours.”
She also called on society to show more compassion and understanding.
“There are many parents with CP children who keep them hidden because of how people treat them. The way we are looked at makes others feel ashamed or afraid,” she added.
In her address, the Commissioner for Social Development, Dr. Mariam Imam, urged the public to offer children with cerebral palsy the respect and opportunities they deserve.
“This day is a reminder—not just of the challenges these children face, but of their strength, resilience, and immense potential,” she said.
“Cerebral palsy is not a limitation of the human spirit. It is a call for understanding, inclusion, and shared responsibility. We must look beyond disability to see ability, and beyond challenges to recognise possibilities.”
Dr. Imam said the Kwara State Government had taken steps to ensure that no child is left behind, regardless of physical or developmental differences.
According to her, the ministry has enrolled some children living with CP in the state’s Health Insurance Scheme to improve their access to quality healthcare.
“We’ve also trained parents and guardians in income-generating skills such as tie-dye, resin artistry, and POS business management. This is complemented by financial support to help them turn these skills into sustainable ventures.”
Earlier, Ifeoluwa Anishe, Convener and Chief Executive Officer of the Ifeoluwa Cerebral Palsy Initiative, described the event as a celebration of hope and unity. She called for the inclusion of adults living with CP in politics and other public platforms, emphasising the need for dignity, representation, and equal opportunities.
Rev. Samuel Ajayi, CEO of To’omore School for Basic, Vocational and Special Needs, commended both the state government and the organisers for their commitment to disability inclusion.
The event also featured a lecture by Dr. Rasheedat Sholagbade of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), who spoke on the causes, management, and prevention of cerebral palsy.
