The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) has pledged stronger support for persons with disabilities, even as the Federal Government announced plans to establish Medical Rehabilitation Centres across Nigeria with a focus on neuro-rehabilitation for spinal cord injury patients.
Speaking at a symposium in Abuja to mark the 2025 World Spinal Cord Injury Day, Chairman of NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, expressed concern over the rising global statistics of spinal cord injuries, noted that more than 15 million people worldwide are living with the condition. She urged government and stakeholders to strengthen road safety laws, workplace protections, and health systems.
“To our communities: create safer environments and raise awareness. To the media: amplify stories that matter, and keep disability at the heart of the public agenda. And to every individual: take personal responsibility at home, at work, and on the road,” Ike said.
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, who delivered the keynote address, disclosed that the government is collaborating with the Medical Rehabilitation Therapists (Registration) Board of Nigeria (MRTB) to establish rehabilitation centres nationwide. He said the project is at the assessment stage, laying the foundation for a National Policy on Rehabilitation and a Strategic Plan.
Other speakers at the event, including the Chairman of the Spinal Cord Injury Association (SCIAN) FCT Chapter, Chioma Maureen Egede, stressed the urgent need for inclusive infrastructure, accessible healthcare, and policies that prioritise prevention and dignity for persons living with disabilities.
The symposium, themed “Fall Prevention, Spinal Cord Protection, Empowering Lives, Enhancing Opportunities”, was jointly organised by SCIAN FCT Chapter and Brain and Spine Foundation Africa.
