The Irede Foundation has set an ambitious target for 200 children to benefit from its free artificial limbs across the states in Nigeria through the support of donors and corporate sponsors in 2025.
Peter Onyekwuo, Lead Advocate of the Foundation’s Out on a Limb in Benin dropped the hint when the Foundation staged an awareness walk in Saturday in Benin City.
The outreach, tagged “Out on a Limb 2025” met to promote access to free prosthetic limbs for children with limb loss, took place along the Oluku axis of the City and attracted volunteers, donors, and advocates.
The project targeted children aged 0 to 18 years who needed limbs but could afford them, according to Onyekwuo who also stated that an artificial limb costs over N1.5 million in hospitals, but Irede Foundation offers it free.
He told journalists during the walk that “This year’s theme is ‘Full Access, No Cap’, meaning there’s no limitation for any child,” Onyekwuo sai.
According to him, limb loss should not stop any child from going to school or pursuing their dreams.
“It must not be a hindrance”, he stressed, noting that the event was part of a global movement taking place simultaneously in 60 locations including the U.S, Dubai, and Dublin.
“This is the 12th edition of Out on a Limb. In Benin, it’s either the second or third time we’re holding it”, he explained.
The Lead Advocate of the Foundation however lamented the absence of child beneficiaries in Benin so far despite the awareness.
“I’ve not seen any child referred yet. When I was in Ebonyi and Lokoja, children got limbs.
“But here in Benin, we’re still waiting. That’s why we keep advocating”, he said, “limb loss should not stop any child from going to school or pursuing their dreams”.
The lead advocate, however, acknowledged support from companies like UPS and encouraged individuals to donate and help children live full lives.
“We want children in Benin to benefit too. Let one get it and become a testimony for others,” Onyekwuo urged.
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