The Irede Foundation (TIF) has urged the public to end discrimination and societal stigmatisation against amputees to allow them live their full life. Executive Director/Founder of the Foundation, Crystal Chigbu, made the appeal, yesterday, as the foundation prepares for its yearly walk, with the theme, “A Walk for Inclusion” holding on April 8, 2023, in 60 locations globally and four locations in Lagos in commemoration of the global limb loss awareness month to celebrate the amputees’ uniqueness, strength and ability to thrive against all odds.

Chigbu, who gave the charge during a media briefing, said that this year, TIF would focus on employment opportunities and access for amputee youths. She said that the walk would help to create awareness for children, youths and aged amputees and their caregivers to have equal access in the society.

“This year, we want to focus on giving 200 limbs, which would comprise new limbs and replacements. Last year, we did 102 limbs. We have given out 361 limbs in 10 years. Right now, a limb costs an average of N1.5 million,” she said.

Chigbu also stated that starting from this year, a lot of researches would be put into ensuring that limbs are provided for amputees. She, however, added that there still remains gap in the implementation of disability law passed in 2019.

“For children, we would focus on access to full education, for youths, to have equal access to employment opportunities and for caregivers, to be able to live their lives independently,” she added.