In a significant demonstration of commitment to the wellbeing of children with special needs, the Wife of the Governor of Delta State and Founder of the You Matter Charity Foundation, Her Excellency Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, on Thursday, November 27, 2025, donated free medication, wheelchairs, and a range of assistive and educational devices during the launch of a free medical outreach for special-needs children and their caregivers in Ughelli, Delta Central.
Organised by the You Matter Charity Foundation in collaboration with the Delta State Ministry of Health and the Delta State Primary Health Care Development Agency, the outreach featured medical check-ups, nutrition counselling, disability support services, and the distribution of mobility and learning tools designed to improve independence, access to care, and overall quality of life.
Addressing parents and caregivers, Deaconess Oborevwori urged an end to the harmful practice of hiding children with special needs, describing it as a tradition driven by ignorance.
She stressed that no child should be denied visibility, affection, or proper care, and called for increased public understanding of Autism and other developmental conditions.
“It is not their fault. Every child deserves love, dignity, and the opportunity to thrive,” she stated, expressing concern over the stigma that keeps many children away from school and essential healthcare.
She emphasised that Autism is not a spiritual issue or a disease seeking a cure, but a condition that can be effectively managed with empathy, knowledge, and professional care.
She explained that the state-wide outreach aims not only to provide direct medical support but also to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions, and encourage parents to seek early intervention.
She appealed to mothers to show courage by presenting their children for assistance rather than hiding them.
Reaffirming her Foundation’s commitment, the First Lady called on families, community organisations, and institutions to unite in building a more inclusive Delta State.
Delivering health talks, Dr. Ifeoma Udeh, Consultant Paediatrician at Asaba Specialist Hospital, noted that about 50% of Nigerian children suffer micronutrient deficiencies due to economic challenges, poor feeding habits, and cultural practices.
She highlighted the critical role of exclusive breastfeeding and early nutrition.
Also speaking, Dr. Bolum-Okolie Angela, Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist, reinforced the First Lady’s message, urging parents to prioritise healthcare, education, and emotional support for children living with disabilities, as early intervention greatly improves long-term outcomes.
Medical experts were on ground to conduct examinations and offer guidance, as the outreach advanced the Foundation’s mission of providing visibility, hope, and essential support to children with special needs across Delta State.
