…Monarch Urges Wealthy Nigerians To Support Children With Disabilities
… Commissioner Lauds Royal Intervention, Says Gesture Complements Govt’s Effort
Daud Olatunji
The Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Prof. Saka Matemilola, on Monday, donated 75 bunk beds and 150 mattresses to pupils of the Daniel Akintonde Model School for Children with Special Needs in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The monarch made the donation during the commissioning of a newly built block of toilet facilities at the school, a gesture aimed at improving the welfare and learning environment of children living with disabilities.
Oba Matemilola, who spoke shortly after handing over the items, called on wealthy Nigerians to extend similar gestures to special needs schools across the state and beyond.
He said, “We were told that Ogun State has about five schools for children with special needs — one here in Abeokuta, one in Ijebu-Ode, one in Ilaro, and others in different locations. Let us identify them and support them.
These children also deserve hope that they can become somebody in life. When they are empowered and supported, they can grow into responsible citizens who will contribute positively to our society.”
The monarch, whose Olowu Hope Initiative sponsored the project, noted that inclusivity and compassion for vulnerable groups are essential for sustainable development.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology in the state, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, commended the royal father for his commitment to educational development and social responsibility.
Arigbabu said, “First, I want to appreciate Kabiyesi. There are people who are comfortable and don’t care about others, but Kabiyesi is an example of someone who wants everyone around him to be comfortable. He made a promise and fulfilled it.
The government cannot do everything alone, so when we have people like Kabiyesi supporting not just education but other sectors like security and welfare, it makes a big difference. I’m truly happy and I congratulate the children; this is only the beginning — more will come.”
The Head Teacher of the Daniel Akintonde Model School, Miss Bukola Idowu, expressed delight over the donation, describing it as a “glorious development” for the school.
“I feel delighted with the new development. I want to appreciate Kabiyesi for bringing this project to our school. Many of our intellectually challenged children used to roam the streets, but now there’s hope for both the parents and the children,” she said.
Idowu, who confirmed the receipt of 75 bunk beds and 150 mattresses, also appealed to other well-meaning Nigerians to emulate the Olowu’s gesture.
“Since this initiative has been established, I believe the sons and daughters of Owu Kingdom and others will join Kabiyesi to make the dream a reality,” she added.
On the school’s challenges, she disclosed that although the government had recently employed more caregivers and teachers, the school still required additional specialists to provide round-the-clock support for the pupils.
She said, “We are having series of challenges, but the government is trying its best.
“Recently, we got some caregivers and nine additional teachers.
“However, we still need more people like social workers and therapists to care for the children after school hours. Teachers can’t do it alone.”
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