Children with mobility challenges in Kaduna State are beginning to receive specially designed wheelchairs as part of efforts to improve their quality of life and inclusion.
The Kaduna State Government commenced the distribution of 100 pediatric wheelchairs under the Build-A-World of Play programme, implemented in partnership with the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI). The rollout, which started on Friday in Kaduna, brought together government officials, health experts, and development partners.
During the event, CHAI officially presented the wheelchairs to the state authorities for onward distribution to beneficiaries.
Mohammad Bello-Usman, Lead of the Kaduna Assistive Technology Programme, explained that the wheelchairs are designed to provide essential postural support for children with mobility impairments.
He noted that the devices come with features such as headrests, backrests, and positioning straps to ensure proper body alignment and prevent long-term deformities.
According to him, each child undergoes a personalised fitting process, while parents and caregivers are trained on proper usage and maintenance.
He added that the initiative is being driven by the Kaduna State Disability Affairs Board, the State Universal Basic Education Board, and the State Primary Healthcare Board, with funding and technical support from CHAI and the LEGO Foundation.
Bello-Usman further stated that the programme supports the state’s broader disability inclusion strategy, which focuses on early detection, access to assistive devices, and the use of play-based methods to enhance development.
He said, in addition to wheelchairs, other assistive tools such as crutches, ankle supports, glasses, and guide canes have been distributed to children based on individual needs.
He revealed that more than 171,000 children have been screened since the programme began, with assessments covering vision, mobility, communication, cognition, and hearing across schools, primary healthcare centres, and communities.
Esther Jibji, Director of Special Programmes at the State Universal Basic Education Board, said the partnership has strengthened the capacity for early identification and timely support for children requiring assistive devices.
Cecelia Marcus, representing the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board, noted that the initiative forms part of a wider effort to expand access to assistive technologies for children nationwide, adding that over 2,000 children have already been identified through state-led screenings.
She emphasised the need for sustained government commitment to ensure early detection and broader access to rehabilitation services for children with disabilities.