Abuja: Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, has called on parents to support and celebrate their children with disabilities, regardless of their condition. Yilwatda made this appeal on Tuesday in Abuja during the 2025 Children's Day Maiden Special Football Match and Recreational Event, organised by The Albino Foundation (TAF) Africa. The event aimed to showcase the sporting talents of children with disabilities and promote their social inclusion in Nigeria.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Children's Day is celebrated annually on May 27 to honour children and highlight their rights, welfare, and potential as future leaders. Speaking at the event, the minister revealed that he was born with a learning disability and credited his parents' support for his success. He urged parents to stand by their children and not be ashamed of them due to any disabilities. Yilwatda emphasized, "The future of these children is very bright. I'm living proof that in every disability, there is ability."
Yilwatda encouraged the children to aspire to greatness and not let any limitations hold them back. He expressed his hopes for the children to become future leaders who can drive inclusivity. He also highlighted government efforts to support schools attended by children with disabilities, including providing assistive devices to enhance learning.
In his remarks, Mr Jake Epelle, Chief Executive Officer of TAF Africa, said the event was organised to celebrate the potential of children with disabilities and advocated for their inclusion. Epelle emphasized that the event sends a strong message that "disability is not inability" and every child deserves the right to play and belong.
Mrs Kanayo Olisa-Metuh, Executive Director of Legend Golden Care Foundation, echoed the need for full inclusion of children with disabilities in all aspects of society. She highlighted that history is filled with individuals who overcame disabilities to achieve great things and urged society to ensure that disability is never a limiting factor.
Samuel Onoja, a 13-year-old with albinism who participated in the match, expressed excitement about the event and called for an end to discrimination against children with disabilities. He urged the government to provide more support and empowerment for these children.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the celebration featured a friendly football match played by children with disabilities, showcasing their talents and the power of inclusive recreation.