The Ability Life Initiative (TALI), founded by Oprah and Prada Uzodimma, in Nigeria, continues to break barriers in advocating for the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities. Over the past five years, the organisation has led numerous initiatives, from community outreaches to educational programmes, aimed at fostering a more inclusive society.
TALI’s recent efforts include a skincare sensitisation programme for persons with albinism in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in October 2023 and another outreach in Imo State in December 2024. These programmes provided vital education on skincare for individuals with albinism and distributed essential items such as sunscreens and ultraviolet protective sleeves.
In June 2024, TALI extended its impact to Government Secondary School, Kuje, Abuja, where it introduced students to the C-board Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) application. This tool aids individuals with speech or communication challenges by using symbols, text-to-speech, and customizable boards to enhance expression. The foundation also donated educational materials, wheelchairs, and other resources to support inclusive learning.
Now, TALI is set to mark a significant milestone with its Official Unveiling on February 20, 2025, in Abuja.
Under the theme “The Journey, The Impact, The Future,” the event will feature key figures in advocacy and governance, including: Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities; Mr. Chidozie Ezechukwu who is Nigeria’s Country Representative, Management Sciences for Health; Dr. Chike Okogwu who is the Chief Responsibility Officer, Centre for Ability, Rehabilitation and Empowerment (CARE), and Chikaosolu Ojukwu, SAN who is the Principal Partner, Ojukwu Chikaosolu & Co.
Other special guests include: Rt. Honourable Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker, House of Representatives,: Her Excellency Ambassador Professor Olufolake Abdulrazaq the First Lady of Kwara State; Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District; Hon. Bashir Dawodu, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Disability; Hon. Deacon Chike Okafor, Member, House of Representatives
representing Ehime Mbano/ Ihitte Uboma/ Obowo Federal Constituency; Chief Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology; Dr. Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, the Minister of State for Finance, Rt Hon. Nkeiruka Chidubem Onyejeocha, the Minister of State, Labour and Employment,; Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the Minister of Women Affairs; Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, the Honorable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs; Dr. Chris Nwanoro, the Nigerian Ambassador to Sao Tome and Principe
and a member of the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD); Abdoulie Hydara, the Deputy High Commissioner at the Gambia High Commission; Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs & Equal Opportunities; Mr. Charles Odii; the Director General
Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria; Mr. Jake Epelle; the Founder, The Albino Foundation Africa; Dr Lynda Ozor; the National Professional Officer, World Health Organisation (WHO); Dr Ifeanyi Ajaegbo, the National Professional Officer, UNESCO; Nkoyo Francesca Echabor, the Programme Officer, Humanitarian Operations
ECOWAS Commission; Mr. Adewolu Adene, the Head, Government Affairs & Public Policy West Africa
Google; and Ms. Adesuwa Illuobe, the Programme Coordinator, Action Aid.
The event will be available for online streaming, allowing a wider audience to engage in the conversation on disability inclusion.
TALI’s vision is clear – to create a society where individuals are recognised for their potential rather than their limitations. With continued advocacy, education, and community support, the Uzodimma sisters are driving a movement that challenges perceptions and fosters true inclusion.
