Glowing Star Empowerment Initiative and Development was founded in 2020 by Hajiya Safiya Mansoor, a passionate advocate for special needs children. However, the organization officially became registered in 2025.
Hajiya Safiya’s inspiration came from her beloved niece, Nesira, who lives with cerebral palsy. Witnessing the challenges Nesira faced, she realized the urgent need for advocacy, inclusive education, and free healthcare for children and individuals with special needs. Determined to create a supportive, inclusive, and empowering environment, she established Glowing Star Empowerment Initiative and Development to ensure that no child is left behind, regardless of their abilities.
Through her dedication and vision, the initiative has grown into a beacon of hope, providing essential healthcare services, educational support, and advocacy to improve the lives of children with disabilities. Glowing Star stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to inclusion, equality, and empowerment for all.
STATISTICS ON SPECIAL NEEDS
Neurological Disorders- A global national challange.
Global Impact:
- In 2021, over 3 billion people worldwide live with a neurological condition, making these disorders the leading cause of illness and disability globally (WHOO, 2024)
Nigeria's Reality:
- A community based study in Southwest Nigeria reported a crude prevalence rate of 352 per 1000 people individuals for neurological disorders. (BMJ Neurology Open).
In Nigeria, while comprehensive national statistics for special needs populations are limited, available data and studies offer insights into the prevalence of conditions like cerebral palsy, Down's syndrome, epilepsy, and autism. Cerebral palsy is estimated to affect 3.5 out of every 1,000 Nigerian children. Down's syndrome is reported to occur in about 1 in 865 live births. Epilepsy is estimated to affect 8 out of 1,000 people, with higher rates in rural areas. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is estimated to affect 2.3% of the population.
Specific Conditions and Prevalence:
Cerebral Palsy:
Studies suggest that cerebral palsy affects approximately 3.5 out of every 1,000 Nigerian children. Spastic cerebral palsy is the most common type, accounting for a significant portion of cases.
Down's Syndrome:
The incidence of Down's syndrome is reported to be about 1 in 865 live births.
Epilepsy:
Prevalence estimates for epilepsy range from 8 per 1,000 people, with higher rates observed in rural areas.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD):
National studies estimate a 2.3% autism prevalence in Nigeria.
Our Mission.
To improve the lives of special needs children through inclusive policies, education, and skill development.
Our Vision
A society where every special needs child thrives and reaches their full potential.
What We Aim To Solve
lLimited access to inclusive education: Many special needs children lack access to quality education, leading to lower educational attainment.
lLimited healthcare services: Therapy (speech, physiotherapy, occupational therapy) is expensive and inaccessible to most familires.
lSocial stigma and discrimination: Many children face social exclusion due to lack of awareness and acceptance, resulting in limited oppurtunities.
lPolicy implementation gaps: Policies for special education and healthcare are either inadequate or poorly implemented.
lEmployement inopportunities: Many special needs individuals despite their efforts at self development, do not get employed or are tagged un-employable.
The Urgent Need for Action
lWithout systemic interventions, millions will continue to suffer preventable complications.
lNeed for improved infrastructure, awareness and government backed support.
We need your support to
lAdvocate for better policies and government funding.
lprovide resources and training for special needs children, their parents and caregivers.
lProvide affordable or free healthcare and therapy for children with special needs.
