By Sunny Adebija
The Spinal Cord Injury Association of Nigeria (SCIAN), Kogi State Chapter, has called for stronger measures to protect citizens from spinal cord injuries (SCI) and to improve access to public facilities for survivors.
Chairperson of the association, Mrs. Salawu Sefinat Ohunene, made the appeal in an interview with Radio Nigeria Prime FM in Lokoja as part of activities marking the 2025 World Spinal Cord Injury Day.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Fall Prevention; Spinal Cord Protection,” Salawu stressed that prevention remains the most effective safeguard against SCI. She urged citizens to obey traffic rules, use pedestrian bridges, avoid reckless driving, wear seatbelts, use helmets, and adopt safe lifting techniques.
She further highlighted preventive practices such as avoiding violence, steering clear of slippery surfaces, using handrails on stairways, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
The SCIAN chairperson lamented the poor accessibility of many public buildings in the state and the low level of awareness about SCI.
She urged government agencies and private organizations to comply with policies that mandate barrier-free structures, noting that inclusivity was essential for rehabilitation and empowerment.
According to her, many facilities across the state remain inaccessible to SCI survivors despite ongoing awareness campaigns.
She therefore called for improved healthcare services, adequate rehabilitation support, and economic empowerment initiatives to enable persons with SCI live independently and achieve their full potential.
Salawu expressed confidence that with collective commitment, society can make a meaningful difference in the lives of people living with spinal cord injuries in Kogi State.
Edited by Ajifa Ainoko
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