In a move aimed at supporting residents with hearing loss, the Land of Honour and Integrity (Ekiti State) Government has distributed electronic hearing aids valued at N12 million to four schoolchildren and one adult. The devices, presented during a brief event at the Skills Acquisition Centre in Ilokun, Ado-Ekiti, are expected to improve the recipients’ ability to hear and communicate effectively.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, who supervised the presentation, revealed that the beneficiaries were selected from a group of 70 individuals screened during a recent assessment exercise across the state. The evaluation focused on identifying those whose hearing could be improved through the use of assistive devices.
She noted that school-aged children require both vision and hearing to thrive academically and urged parents to pay close attention to their children’s health. Early detection and timely intervention, she said, can prevent conditions that may hinder a child’s growth or learning capacity.
Princess Agboola also expressed appreciation to Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his continued support of persons with disabilities. She recounted how several children had previously been withdrawn from school due to hearing challenges but were brought back after the governor emphasized inclusive education.
“When these children were assessed, it became clear that many could benefit from amplified hearing. Rather than send them to a special school, we chose to enhance their hearing abilities. As seen today, those fitted with the aids are now responsive and able to participate better in everyday life,” she said.
Representing the Political Head (Commissioner) for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, the Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme in Ekiti, Dr. Charles Doherty, said the hearing aids represent more than a medical device — they are a gateway to education, communication, and fuller participation in society.
He highlighted the government’s drive toward ensuring that residents living with various forms of disability receive free medical care, access to support equipment, and specialized treatment through the state’s health programs.
Speaking on behalf of the recipients, Mrs. Opeyemi Ogunmoko expressed deep gratitude to the state government, stating that the hearing device has made a remarkable difference in her ability to communicate.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of Proficiency and Trade Test Certificates from the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment to 40 persons living with disabilities who completed a six-month vocational training program. The training covered tailoring, shoemaking, ICT, hairdressing, and catering.
Princess Agboola said the certification would empower the graduates to seek employment or start their ventures, with recognition of their skills on par with others in the job market. She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting their progress.
