FCTA, Foundation Canvass Inclusive Healthcare For Children With Special Needs

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Royal School of Education Therapy Foundation have stressed the need for inclusive and integrated healthcare plan for children and persons with special needs.

This message was emphasised at the second edition of the Free Family Health Fair, organized by the Foundation in partnership with the FCTA Health Services and Environment Secretariat in Abuja.

The Organizers who focused on developmental disabilities in children, maternal wellbeing, and preventive healthcare warned that existing gaps in access and awareness continue to expose many families to avoidable risks.

Founder of the Foundation, Dr. Badewa Adejube Williams explained that the outreach was designed to dispel harmful health myths and equip parents with knowledge of key developmental milestones for children with special needs.

She disclosed that over 250,000 children with developmental disabilities have been identified within the FCT, adding that the actual number may be significantly higher, particularly in underserved communities.

“When you look at a child, you have to look at the child holistically. What was the birthing process like? Was the mother even getting prenatal care? Most parents don’t keep a record of such things.

“There are essential markers that will be an indicator that a child has a developmental disorder, and if you find that early enough and begin intervention early enough, there is a better chance for the child to improve,” she said.

Acting Director of the FCTA Health Insurance Scheme, Dr. Salma Belgore stressed the need for deliberate prioritisation of persons with special needs under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).

Represented by the Acting Head of Equity and Special Programmes, Vershima Igyundu, noted that excluding this population has long-term implications for families and the healthcare system.

“Persons with special needs represent one of the most vulnerable groups in our communities, often experiencing significant barriers in accessing timely, affordable, and quality healthcare. As we continue strengthening the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) Program, it is critical that their enrollment remains a top priority.

“A health system is only as strong as its ability to reach those who are most at risk of being left behind. By deliberately enrolling persons with special needs, we demonstrate our commitment to equity, fairness, and the principle that every life, regardless of ability, deserves protection.”

Similarly, Osayande Osagie from the FCT Department of Public Health cautioned against misinformation and secrecy surrounding pregnancy and childbirth.

He highlighted the lifesaving role of caesarean sections and the need for comprehensive medical assessments during antenatal care.

“We also want to find out about your social history. Your age, your job, drug history, medical history, alcohol usage among other things. After that we want to do a general examination, take your height, weight, so we can calculate your BMI, body mass index, among other examinations so we can identify those at risk of diabetes or blood pressure. We want to have an idea if the pregnant woman has enough blood,” he noted.

Hundreds of residents benefited from screenings for diabetes, hypertension, BMI, and other health indicators during the fair.

According to the organisers, the initiative forms part of a broader effort to advance disability inclusion, promote preventive care, and improve access to healthcare services across the FCT.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji