Lagos Deepens Disability Inclusion With EPIC Screening, Play-Based Support For Children
The Special Adviser to Lagos Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, says play is not merely a recreational activity but a vital component of healthy childhood development, strengthening mental well-being, social awareness and emotional stability.
Ogunyemi stated this at the Early Pathway to Inclusive Care (EPIC) and Build a World of Play (BAWOP) Fun Fair, an initiative aimed at promoting early identification, inclusion and holistic care for children living with disabilities.
The event organised by the Lagos State Government through the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) and the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), was held at the Johnson Jakande Tinubu (JJT) Park, Ikeja.
Addressing more than 4,000 pupils from public primary schools, as well as health professionals, therapists, teachers and caregivers, Ogunyemi described the initiative as an opportunity for children to thrive, connect, and feel valued. She added that play boosts children’s confidence and strengthens their sense of belonging.
She noted that the excitement displayed by the pupils reflected the impact of creating safe spaces where children can freely express themselves. Ogunyemi commended the organisers for pooling expertise, resources and goodwill to ensure the children felt loved and supported.
According to her, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains deeply committed to disability inclusion and would be proud of the collaborative spirit demonstrated at the event. She expressed hope that the initiative would expand to other parts of the state so children who could not participate would also benefit.
Also speaking, the Director of Special Projects and Mental Health at the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Tolu Ajomale, said the EPIC initiative was developed to identify and support children living with disabilities from birth to age 10 through early screening and referral to appropriate care.
He explained that the Play Fair format was deliberately designed to create a stigma-free environment where children with and without disabilities could interact naturally.
Ajomale noted that the programme focuses on four key developmental domains hearing, vision, mobility and general development. By embedding screening and documentation within a playful setting, he said the initiative supports children with special needs while also promoting acceptance among their peers.
