Dr. Yetunde Dairo, an Associate Professor of Physiotherapy and Research Lead at Buckinghamshire New University, UK, has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative to enhance the lives of Nigerians with intellectual disabilities (ID).
The project aims to promote physical activity through an innovative exercise programme, starting with a stakeholder engagement at the Lagos Special Children School in Igbobi.
Dr. Dairo’s programme, “Bringing Physical Activity to Life,” is designed to address the unique challenges faced by school-aged children and adults with ID in Nigeria. The initiative focuses on boosting physical activity, improving balance and mobility, and fostering social interactions for individuals who often encounter barriers to exercise and societal inclusion.
This project stands out for its collaborative approach. Rather than imposing solutions, Dr. Dairo and her team are co-creating the programme with key stakeholders, including individuals with ID, their families, and local healthcare workers. This ensures the initiative reflects Nigeria’s cultural values and meets the specific needs of the community.
In Nigeria, individuals with ID frequently lack opportunities for physical activity, which heightens their risk of health problems such as obesity and heart disease. Limited healthcare resources exacerbate these challenges, making affordable and accessible interventions essential.
Exercise has proven benefits for people with disabilities worldwide, improving fitness, motor skills, and social engagement. By tailoring a programme to Nigeria’s context, Dr. Dairo’s project offers a fun, adaptable, and sustainable way for individuals with ID to stay active and connected.
Co-Creation: Focus groups with individuals with ID, caregivers, and healthcare providers will guide the programme’s design. Visual aids and safety materials will also be developed.
Testing and Feedback: The programme will be piloted in local communities to assess its impact on physical activity, balance, and social skills. Feedback will refine the initiative.
Training and Sustainability: Local healthcare workers will be trained to deliver the programme, ensuring its longevity beyond the project’s duration.
This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s Disability Rights Act, promoting inclusion and equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities. It also supports global efforts like the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals to reduce inequalities and improve health worldwide.
Dr. Dairo and her team aim to create a scalable blueprint that can inspire similar initiatives in other low- and middle-income countries. The project’s success hinges on community involvement and securing additional funding from research organizations and development partners.
This programme is not just about exercise; it’s a transformative step towards empowerment, health, and inclusion for Nigerians with intellectual disabilities. By training local healthcare providers and engaging the community, Dr. Dairo’s initiative promises lasting benefits and a brighter future for individuals with ID across Nigeria.
:Vanguard