Federal Government on Friday unveils plans to establish Medical Rehabilitation Centres for Persons with spinal cord injury across the country, with a strong focus on neuro rehabilitation.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa disclosed this in Abuja at the Symposium with the theme: ‘Fall prevention, Spinal Cord protection, empowering lives, enhancing opportunities’, to commemorate the 2025 world spinal cord injury day organised in collaboration with the Spinal Cord Injury Association (SCIAN) FCT Chapter And Brain and Spine Foundation Africa.

Hon. Isa who delivered the keynote address at the occasion reiterated President Bola Tinubu administration’s resolve towards advancing spinal cord health and disability inclusion in Nigeria, by ensuring that persons with disabilities, including those with spinal cord injuries, are empowered to live full, dignified, and productive lives.

He disclosed that, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is fully aware of this reality and is working assiduously to improve the quality of life for Nigerians living with spinal cord injuries and other disabilities.

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“Through targeted interventions, provision of assistive devices, and promotion of inclusive policies, the government is reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that no citizen is denied access to health, dignity, and opportunity.

“Partnership for Rehabilitation: Specifically, my office, the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities has partnered with the Medical Rehabilitation Therapists (Registration) Board of Nigeria (MRTB) to establish Medical Rehabilitation Centres across the country, with a strong focus on neuro rehabilitation.

He said: “This initiative is currently at the Situation Assessment Stage carefully evaluating existing structures, identifying gaps, and laying the groundwork for the development of a National Policy on Rehabilitation and a Strategic Plan.

“When fully implemented, this framework will transform the rehabilitation landscape in Nigeria and offer renewed hope to countless individuals and families.”

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In her address, Chairman, Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Chapter, Comrade Grace Ike expressed grave concern over the globally statistics which indicated that over 15 million people live with spinal cord injuries, contributing to more than 4.5 million years lived with disability.

According to the record, in 2019 alone, nearly one million new cases were recorded. Road crashes and falls account for over 700,000 of those injuries.

Comrade Ike who was the Special Guest at the 2025 World Spinal Cord Injury Day, who pledged the Union’s resolve to support for Persons with Disabilities including persons with spinal cord injury, called on Policymakers to strengthen road safety laws, workplace protections, and health systems.

“To our communities: create safer environments and raise awareness. To the Media: amplify stories that matter and keep disability at the heart of the public agenda. And to every individual: take personal responsibility—at home, at work, and on the road.”

On her part, Chairman, Spinal Cord Injury FCT chapter, Chioma Maureen Egede observed that the theme for 2025, ‘Fall Prevention, Spinal Cord Protection,’ could not be more timely or urgent.

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“Falls remain one of the leading causes of spinal cord injuries globally, and here in Nigeria, the impact is felt deeply—across homes, workplaces, and public spaces. This theme challenges us to act: to educate, to innovate, and to advocate for safer environments and stronger support systems.

“As Chairman of the Abuja Chapter, I am proud of the strides we’ve made in rehabilitation, peer support, and public engagement. But today reminds us that our work is far from over. We must continue to push for inclusive infrastructure, accessible healthcare, and policies that prioritize prevention and dignity for all.

“Let us use this day to amplify voices that are often unheard. Let us celebrate the courage of those living with spinal cord injuries, and honor the tireless efforts of families, caregivers, and medical professionals who walk this journey alongside them.

“Together, we can build a future where spinal cord injuries caused by falls are not a tragic norm, but a rare exception. Let this gathering be a spark—igniting change, inspiring action, and strengthening our resolve.”