In commemoration of the Year 2026 International Wheelchairs' Day, the administration of Prince Dapo Abiodun in Ogun State has distributed high numbers of manual and electronic wheelchairs to learners with mobility issues in the State.

Speaking during the donations at Daniel Akintonde Model School for Children with Special Needs, Abeokuta, Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, said beneficiaries were selected from all the 5 Special Needs Schools, as well as Public Primary and Secondary Schools across the State.

Prof. Arigbabu, recalled that the present government since inception had inculcated a habit of donating wheelchairs and white canes annually, to support learners with limbs issues and the visually impaired ones, saying over 500 mobility tools had been distributed so far.

The Commissioner noted that the presentation was made on behalf of the Governor as special intervention to make teaching and learning better for those learners, promising more programmes that would provide comfort for people living with disabilities, thus making them have a sense of belonging.

"If someone is brilliant and with good aspirations, but having one impediment or the other, to achieve such aspirations may seem difficult, that is why the Governor has made it his habit to do everything possible to make life easier for them,’’ Arigbabu affirmed.

He appreciated the Olowu of Owu, Oba Saka Matemilola, for giving a facelift to Daniel Akintonde Model School for Children with Special Needs in terms of renovation and equipping the school hall and hostels with first hand gadgets.

Also speaking, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs. Oluwatosin Oloko, said every child deserved the opportunity to move freely, learn comfortably and aspire confidently towards a brighter future, hence the need for the donations, while describing Prince Abiodun as a father whose passion for inclusive education continues to inspire meaningful interventions.

In her welcome address, the Director, Department of Special Needs Education, Mrs. Deborah Ogundimu, noted that the programme was dedicated to celebrate resilience, courage, inclusion and the fundamental rights of children living with mobility challenges.

Appreciating the government for the generosity, two parents of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Ime Unwana and Mrs. Folasade Abiodun acknowledged the fact that the current administration in the State is running all inclusive programmes for the benefit of all.