The Irede Foundation (TIF) has called for collective action to ensure equal opportunities for children living with limb loss.

The call was made at the 2026 edition of its flagship initiative, Out On A Limb (OOAL), themed “No Limits. Just Motion,” which highlighted over a decade of advocacy, partnerships and sustained efforts to promote disability inclusion in Nigeria.

Founder of the foundation, Mrs Crystal Chigbu, said the campaign encourages persons living with disabilities to showcase their abilities and strengths.

She explained that the initiative focuses on improving access in key areas such as transportation, education and information, while ensuring representation across all categories of persons with disabilities.

Chigbu added that the foundation’s work extends beyond children with limb loss, with a broader goal of building an inclusive system that supports all persons living with disabilities.

On technological innovation, she disclosed that the foundation has incorporated artificial intelligence into the production of prosthetics using 3D technology. She said the innovation has undergone trials for five to six months and is already yielding results, with one beneficiary currently using a 3D prosthetic limb.

According to her, more than 50 per cent of the prosthetic limbs to be distributed this year will be produced using the method, with the aim of improving efficiency and reaching more beneficiaries.

Chigbu also called for a shift in public perception, stating that disability advocacy concerns society as a whole rather than only persons with disabilities.

Chairman of the Board of Directors of TIF, Mr Kunle Akinkugbe, commended partners, supporters and stakeholders for their contributions to the foundation’s work over the past 13 years.

He acknowledged the support of government institutions, including the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) and the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende, for advancing disability inclusion and supporting vulnerable groups.

Akinkugbe said the success of the initiative reflects a shared vision and sustained commitment by stakeholders working to improve access and opportunities for children with limb loss.

He added that progress in the sector requires continuity, collaboration and long-term commitment to building inclusive systems.

Now in its 13th year, the annual advocacy walk has expanded from a small initiative into a global movement, reaching over 10,000 people directly and more than 10 million indirectly, with activities held in over 50 locations worldwide.

Also speaking, the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende, described the walk as significant, both for the state and personally.

He said the initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to inclusivity and its goal of ensuring that no resident is excluded, regardless of background or physical condition.

Ogunlende noted that the walk provides a platform for advocacy and partnership, highlighting the state’s collaboration with organisations in the disability sector.

He added that the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs operates under his ministry, reflecting institutional support for persons with disabilities.

According to him, the state provides support to organisations through funding, policy backing and access to infrastructure, while maintaining an open-door policy to encourage engagement and partnerships aimed at improving the welfare of persons with disabilities.