The FOS Autism Foundation has paid a courtesy visit to the Education Secretary of Ikorodu Division, Mr. Taiwo Odumbo, as part of efforts to collaborate with relevant stakeholders ahead of its forthcoming “One-Day Free Neuro-Developmental Screening and Consultation” programme scheduled for May 27, 2026, at Pistis Hub, Ikorodu West.
The delegation, led by the founder of the foundation, Mrs. Osezusi Bolodeoku, also visited HRM Oba Bashir Shotonwa Sekumade and some inclusive schools within Ikorodu Division on Thursday, May 15, 2026.
According to the foundation, the visit was aimed at ensuring that children with special needs in various inclusive schools across the division benefit from the free programme.
Schools expected to participate include Salvation Army Inclusive School, Sabo Ikorodu; Community Inclusive School, Abule-Eko; Methodist Inclusive School, Igbogbo; and Ipakodo Inclusive School.
Among dignitaries present during the visit were Mrs. Ude Uloma, Head of Unit, Salvation Army Inclusive School; Mrs. Ajibade Bukola Omolara, Head of Unit, Community Inclusive School, Abule-Eko; Alhaja Afolabi, Head of Unit, Methodist Inclusive School, Igbogbo; Chief Adele Ogunlade; and HRM Oba Bashir Shotonwa Sekumade.
Mrs. Osezusi Bolodeoku appreciated the Education Secretary, Mr. Taiwo Odumbo, for granting the foundation the opportunity to partner with the education authority in support of children with special needs.
She explained that the initiative was designed to enlighten parents on the proper care and management of children with developmental challenges, while also assisting families who are financially unable to access professional medical consultations.
Mrs. Bolodeoku further disclosed that the programme would not be a one-off intervention, noting that the foundation intends to sustain the initiative for the benefit of the community.
Also speaking, Dr. Benedict Salami, a member of the foundation’s team, lamented that many parents often neglect developmental disorders, relying solely on religious interventions instead of seeking professional help.
He stated that several free services would be provided during the programme, including free consultation, developmental screening, professional advice on speech and language development, behavioural management, sensory development, and feeding and nutrition.
Dr. Salami added that specialists expected at the programme include paediatricians, psychologists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, and behavioural analysts.
He further stressed that many parents are often unaware of the early signs of developmental disorders, leading to delayed intervention and inadequate support for affected children.
Education Secretary of Ikorodu Division, Mr. Taiwo Odumbo, expressed profound appreciation to the FOS Autism Foundation for considering Ikorodu Division worthy of benefiting from such a life-changing initiative.
He described the programme as timely and highly commendable, especially at a period when many parents of children with special needs are seeking professional guidance, support, and affordable access to developmental healthcare services.
Mr. Odumbo noted that the education authority remains committed to promoting inclusive education and creating opportunities that will improve the learning and social development of pupils with special needs across the division.
According to him, partnerships between government institutions, non-governmental organisations, and community stakeholders are essential in addressing the challenges faced by children with developmental disorders and their families.
He therefore commended the foundation for taking proactive steps toward awareness creation, early diagnosis, and professional consultation, adding that such interventions would go a long way in helping parents better understand their children’s conditions.
Mr. Odumbo assured the foundation that the education district and heads of inclusive schools under the division would fully cooperate to ensure the success of the programme.
He added that the authority would mobilise parents, caregivers, and pupils from the various inclusive schools to participate actively in the exercise so they can benefit from the free professional services being offered.
He also encouraged parents not to shy away from seeking medical and professional support for children with developmental challenges, emphasizing that early intervention remains one of the most effective ways to improve the growth and learning abilities of such children.
HRM Oba Bashir Shotonwa Sekumade warmly received the team and applauded the initiative, describing it as a remarkable humanitarian gesture aimed at giving hope and support to children with special needs and their families.
The monarch praised the foundation for extending the programme to Ipakodo and other communities within Ikorodu Division, noting that children with developmental challenges deserve equal care, attention, and opportunities in society.
Oba Bashir Shotonwa Sekumade emphasized the need for communities, religious bodies, schools, and government institutions to work together in supporting children with special needs rather than isolating or neglecting them.
He stated that many families silently struggle with the emotional and financial burden associated with caring for children with developmental disorders, making interventions such as the planned screening and consultation programme highly necessary.
The royal father further commended the members of the foundation for their dedication, compassion, and commitment toward improving the lives of vulnerable children in society.
He offered prayers for the success of the programme and asked for divine wisdom, strength, and resources for the organisers to continue impacting lives positively.
Heads of the participating inclusive schools also appreciated the FOS Autism Foundation for extending the initiative to their schools and pupils.
They described the programme as a welcome development that would provide parents and teachers with professional guidance on managing children with developmental and behavioural challenges.
The school administrators further noted that the planned consultation and screening exercise would help identify children requiring urgent intervention and support, thereby improving their educational and social development.
They pledged their full support and cooperation toward ensuring a successful outing for the programme and commended the foundation for its commitment to inclusive care and advocacy for children with special needs in society.
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