Hundreds of participants gathered in Lagos over the weekend to take part in the annual charity walk organized by The Irede Foundation, a non-profit committed to supporting children living with limb loss.
The event, which emphasized the theme of “Full Access, No Cap,” united corporate sponsors, government officials, and advocates in a passionate call for disability inclusion and sustained support for child amputees.
Addressing the crowd, the Director of Human Resources at IHS, one of the foundation’s long-time partners, underscored the company’s ongoing commitment to providing prosthetic limbs, education, and health insurance for children under the foundation’s care. IHS and other sponsors like UPS and UAC Foods were commended for their consistent contributions over the years.
Mr. Kunle Akinkugbe, Chairman of the Board for The Irede Foundation, expressed his gratitude to supporters and highlighted the organization’s long-term commitment to children. “It’s not just about giving a limb today,” he said. “As the children grow, they outgrow their limbs. We have to stay with them until adulthood, providing consistent support.”
Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, reiterated the government’s stance on inclusion under the THEMES Plus agenda. “We have vowed not to leave anyone behind, irrespective of race, background, or disability,” he stated, while emphasizing the power of collaboration between government and civil society.
General Manager of the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde shared a personal message, standing “as a person with disability, a family member, and now, a public servant.” She called for deeper partnerships and noted that beyond limbs, the foundation and the state are addressing psychological and educational needs of both children and caregivers.
Mr. Bassey Anari, African Manager of the UPS Foundation, inspired the audience with stories of empowerment, urging companies to look beyond prosthetic donations and focus on future employment opportunities. “We can replace the body, but not the brain,” he said. “These children must be supported to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society.”
The walk culminated in free medical checks and a renewed drive to fund additional prosthetic limbs and support services. Organizers reminded participants that no donation is too small and encouraged them to share the message of inclusion within their communities.
The Irede Foundation announced plans to continue expanding its reach, focusing not only on children but also on senior citizens and leadership development for people with disabilities. The event closed with emotional tributes to children like Beulah, who have grown through the foundation’s programs, and a hopeful call to action: “Full access, no cap.”
