The Kaduna State Government has commenced the distribution of 100 specialised paediatric wheelchairs to children with mobility impairments as part of efforts to improve inclusion and child development in the state.
The initiative, implemented under the Build-A-World of Play programme in partnership with the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), took place on Friday in Kaduna and was attended by senior government officials, health sector leaders, and development partners. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that CHAI formally handed over the wheelchairs during the ceremony.
Speaking at the event, Mohammad Bello-Usman, Kaduna Assistive Technology Programme Lead, said the wheelchairs are designed to provide critical postural support for children with mobility challenges. He explained that each wheelchair is fitted with headrests, backrests, and positioning straps to ensure proper body alignment and prevent long-term deformities.
“Each child undergoes an individualised fitting session to ensure proper use. Parents and caregivers also receive training on safe use and maintenance,” he said. Bello-Usman added that the initiative is being implemented by the Kaduna State Disability Affairs Board, the State Universal Basic Education Board, and the State Primary Health Care Board, with funding and technical support from CHAI and the LEGO Foundation.
He further noted that the programme aligns with the state’s disability-inclusive framework, focusing on early identification, access to assistive technologies, and play-based interventions for child development. According to him, beyond wheelchairs, beneficiaries have also received assistive devices such as crutches, back slabs, ankle boots, sitting and standing frames, eyeglasses, and guide canes based on assessed needs.
“Since inception, the programme has screened over 171,000 children for developmental delays across visual, mobility, cognitive, communication, and hearing domains through early childhood development screenings in schools, primary healthcare centres, and communities,” he said. “With support from CHAI, we have moved beyond policy into practical, measurable action. Children with disabilities are now identified early and supported appropriately.”
Also speaking, Esther Jibji, Director of Special Programmes at the State Universal Basic Education Board, said CHAI has strengthened institutional capacity for early identification and timely interventions, including provision of assistive devices. She reaffirmed the board’s commitment to sustaining the programme and improving educational outcomes for children with disabilities.
Cecelia Marcus, Focal Person for the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board, described the wheelchair distribution as part of a broader strategy to expand access to assistive technologies nationwide. She noted that over 2,000 children have already been identified through state-led screening efforts.
“Sustained government-led support is needed to ensure early identification and expand access to rehabilitation services,” Marcus said.
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