The Irede Foundation (TIF) has issued a powerful call for collective action to ensure equal opportunities for children living with limb loss in Nigeria. This appeal was made during the 2026 edition of its flagship initiative, Out On A Limb (OOAL), themed "No Limits. Just Motion," which celebrated over a decade of dedicated advocacy, strategic partnerships, and sustained efforts to promote disability inclusion across the nation.
Advocacy and Inclusion Efforts
Founder of the foundation, Mrs Crystal Chigbu, emphasized that the campaign aims to encourage persons living with disabilities to showcase their unique abilities and strengths. She detailed that the initiative focuses on improving access in critical areas such as transportation, education, and information, while ensuring representation across all categories of persons with disabilities. Chigbu highlighted that the foundation's work extends beyond children with limb loss, with a broader goal of building an inclusive system that supports all persons living with disabilities.
Technological Innovations in Prosthetics
On the technological front, Chigbu disclosed that the foundation has incorporated artificial intelligence into the production of prosthetics using advanced 3D technology. She explained that this innovation has undergone rigorous trials for five to six months and is already yielding positive results, with one beneficiary currently using a 3D prosthetic limb. According to her, more than 50 per cent of the prosthetic limbs to be distributed this year will be produced using this method, aiming to improve efficiency and reach more beneficiaries.
Shifting Public Perception
Chigbu also called for a significant shift in public perception, stating that disability advocacy concerns society as a whole rather than only persons with disabilities. She urged communities to embrace inclusivity and support initiatives that foster equal opportunities for all.
Stakeholder Support and Collaboration
Chairman of the Board of Directors of TIF, Mr Kunle Akinkugbe, commended partners, supporters, and stakeholders for their invaluable contributions to the foundation's work over the past 13 years. He acknowledged the support of government institutions, including the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) and the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende, for advancing disability inclusion and supporting vulnerable groups.
Akinkugbe noted that the success of the initiative reflects a shared vision and sustained commitment by stakeholders working to improve access and opportunities for children with limb loss. He added that progress in the sector requires continuity, collaboration, and long-term commitment to building inclusive systems.
Global Impact of the Initiative
Now in its 13th year, the annual advocacy walk has expanded from a small initiative into a global movement, reaching over 10,000 people directly and more than 10 million indirectly, with activities held in over 50 locations worldwide. This growth underscores the widespread impact and importance of the foundation's efforts.
Government Commitment to Inclusivity
Also speaking, the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende, described the walk as significant, both for the state and personally. He said the initiative aligns with the government's commitment to inclusivity and its goal of ensuring that no resident is excluded, regardless of background or physical condition.
Ogunlende noted that the walk provides a platform for advocacy and partnership, highlighting the state's collaboration with organisations in the disability sector. He added that the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs operates under his ministry, reflecting institutional support for persons with disabilities. According to him, the state provides support to organisations through funding, policy backing, and access to infrastructure, while maintaining an open-door policy to encourage engagement and partnerships aimed at improving the welfare of persons with disabilities.
