The President, Nigeria Amputee Football Federation, Mr. Paul Maduakor, has called on all and sundry to support his mission in addressing challenges such as limited access to healthcare and prosthetic devices, accessing education, employment, and entrepreneurial opportunities, as well as societal stigma, to the well-being of amputees.
Mr. Maduakor stated this during a chat with some executive members of the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP), who paid him a working visit in his office.
The delegation, which presented the sports marketer with the NAOSNP Award of Excellence in Sports Development and Philanthropy, was led by the Association’s General Secretary, Theresa Moses, and also had Temidayo Anthony, Friday Etim, and Ranti Fanayajo, in attendance.
Expressing gratitude to the organizers of the award for the great recognition, use the opportunity to encourage media outlets to portray amputees in a positive and inclusive light to challenge stereotypes and promote acceptance. Promoting the well-being and inclusion of amputees in Nigerian society requires a comprehensive effort involving civil society, healthcare providers, businesses, the government, and the broader community to ensure that amputees’ needs are addressed in national development plans and programs. It’s essential to recognize the abilities and potential of amputees and create an environment where they can thrive and contribute to society.
“Promoting the well-being and inclusion of amputees in Nigerian society requires a multi-faceted approach involving various stakeholders, but efforts are being made to help amputees improve their quality of life and inclusion in Nigerian society. There are initiatives dedicated to helping amputees improve their quality of life, but challenges such as limited access to healthcare and prosthetic devices, as well as societal stigma, can still be barriers to their well-being. That’s what necessitated the amputee village.
The concept of an “amputee village” typically refers to a community or settlement specifically designed to cater to the needs of amputees and individuals with disabilities. These villages aim to provide a supportive and inclusive environment where residents can live independently and access the necessary resources and services,” he said.
According to Maduakor, the proposed amputee village will form a close-knit community where they will share experiences, support each other, and work together to address common challenges. The village would be designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that all buildings, pathways, and transportation options are wheelchair-friendly and suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
“The village would offer skills and vocational training programs that will serve as hubs for disability advocacy and awareness campaigns to educate the public about amputees, their needs, and the importance of inclusion and acceptance. Job placement services empower amputees, regardless of their abilities or disabilities, based on their innovative business ideas, potential for growth, and commitment to making a positive social impact with employment opportunities, economic independence, and inclusion in society.
Amputee Village will include access to quality healthcare, including timely surgeries, post-operative care, rehabilitation facilities, and investment in research and innovation to develop better prosthetic technologies and techniques. That will improve access to affordable and well-fitted prosthetic devices, as they play a crucial role in enhancing mobility and independence. Provide counseling and support services to help amputees cope with the emotional and psychological challenges they may face. And also promotes adaptive sports and recreational activities to enhance physical fitness, social interaction, and overall well-being among amputees.
The amputee communities require careful planning, funding, and support from government agencies, NGOs, and healthcare providers to be successful. They should also prioritize the autonomy and preferences of the residents, allowing them to shape the community’s culture and services according to their needs and desires,” he added.
The renowned sports wear merchant seeks massive support for the ‘Raise an Eagle’ outreach and the Special Eagle Talent Show that involves amputees to foster community support and acceptance in community life. While Seeking support from international organizations and charities that specialize in disability rehabilitation and inclusion. Providing amputees with access to training, digital resources, networks, and market linkages requires funding. I want to use this opportunity to encourage media outlets to portray amputees in a positive and inclusive light to challenge stereotypes and promote acceptance.
“Promoting the well-being and inclusion of amputees in Nigerian society requires a comprehensive effort involving civil society, healthcare providers, businesses, and the government to ensure that amputees’ needs are addressed in national development plans and programs and the broader community. It’s essential to recognize the abilities and potential of amputees and create an environment where they can thrive and contribute to society.”
