Keep up with the latest news and be part of our weekly giveaways and airtime sharing; follow our WhatsApp channel for more updates. Click to Follow us

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, has called on the state government and well-meaning individuals to focus more on the challenges faced by children in Special Needs schools within the state.

Comrade Amos Etuk, the Chairman of NUJ in Akwa Ibom State, made this request on Friday during the 2025 Valentine Charity event organized by the Inspiration FM chapel of the NUJ, under the theme: ‘A Heart For Others’. The event was held at the Learning Disabilities Society of Nigeria (LDSN) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Etuk emphasized that the incoming Commissioner for Education should make the welfare and needs of children with special needs a priority, ensuring that their learning experience is smooth and uninterrupted.

He also expressed optimism that Governor Umo Eno, through the union’s advocacy efforts, would eventually visit the center and address the urgent needs of these children.

Furthermore, Etuk praised the teachers for their dedication and patience in educating and supporting the children with special needs, hoping that they would receive the necessary help and support soon.

His words, “This is the best moment of valentine that I’ve seen. I see the social children and I have strong faith in God.

“I will go for stronger advocacy for government to pay more attention to them. We have a listening governor who has passion for education and humanity; I know that through advocacy that one day he will visit this place.”

In her address, Comrade Imaobong Dem, the Chairman of the Inspiration FM Chapel, welcomed the attendees and highlighted the challenges faced by parents of children with special needs. She mentioned that these parents often go above and beyond to care for their children.

From her conversations with parents, Dem learned that many of these children possess remarkable talents in areas like drawing, painting, and other forms of art.

She, therefore, appealed for the necessary support to be provided to both the children and their parents to help them fulfill their God-given potential.

“When you look deeply, you will realize that a lot of parents with these sets of children are alone. If we support them more, they will do a lot more. People with down syndrome or autism are extremely skilled children and they need a whole lot of support,” she said.

Inimfon Okorie, receiving educational materials, toiletries, and food items on behalf of the center, expressed gratitude for the ongoing partnership and for choosing LDSN for their Valentine’s event each year.

She also shared that in addition to following the government-approved curriculum, the center also runs skill acquisition programs.

Please don’t forget to “allow the notification” so you will be the first to get our gist when we publish it. 
Drop your comment in the section below, and don’t forget to share the post.