Spinal Cord Injury Survivors Seek Establishment Of Rehabilitation Centre In Bauchi

Ayuba Mafi

Bauchi State government, Philanthropists, and Non-Governmental Organizations have been called upon to establish a Rehabilitation Centre that will ease the difficulties confronting the survivors of Spinal Cord Injuries in the state.

 

This appeal was contained in a Communique issued to journalists at the end of the First Edition of the 2021 awareness campaign program which was organized by the Spinal Cord Injuries Association Of Nigeria (SCIAN) in Bauchi.

 

The Communique which was signed by the Bauchi state Chapter, chairman of the Association, Iliya Ismail, and his Secretary, Uzairu Hassan respectively, noted that 5th September every year has been set aside as the International Day of Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Program.

 

“The Day is observed on 5th September every year around the World with the intention of increasing public awareness of the conditions of living of the survivors, causes, the cost of treatment, rehabilitation and preventive measures against the causes of the trauma”, the Communique reads.

 

According to the association, it is presumed that the awareness would facilitate an inclusive life, medical support, and provision of assistive devices like wheelchairs for survivors of Spinal Cord Injuries.

 

It further explained that the awareness programme is also aimed at ensuring proper treatment, rehabilitation, and prevention programs for the survivors.

 

The association said apart from establishing the Centre in Bauchi, it is also expected that the center will be adequately equipped with Physiotherapy facilities as well as learning and skills acquisition materials.

 

They also appealed to governments at all levels, NGOs, and Philanthropists to assist them with wheelchairs, catheters, and other medication for the management of the survivors.

 

While calling for the provision of access ways, such as Ramps and elevators to facilitate easy access to public and private buildings, the association sought for the provision of Scholarships at all levels of education to its members.

 

The association urged governments and organizations to always consider the survivors for employment and other empowerment programs.

 

While thanking the Bauchi State government for reviving the Agency for Persons With Disabilities, the association expressed appreciation to all those that participated in the programme.