Stanbic IBTC has equipped 36 beneficiaries from each state with prosthetics to enhance their mobility and social integration.
The bank also awarded N1.5 million in education grants to some of the beneficiaries.
The #Together4ALimb initiative, a key corporate social responsibility project of Stanbic IBTC, includes an annual walkathon launched in 2015 to highlight the issues and encourage action from the government, policymakers, and the public.
The initiative aims to transform the lives of children with limb loss due to congenital conditions, accidents, or mismanaged injuries, providing them with prosthetic limbs and an educational trust fund.
At the event held at Stanbic IBTC Towers, Victoria Island, Lagos, CEO of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Dr Demola Sogunle, explained that the initiative was started to help children with limb loss achieve their aspirations by providing them with prosthetics, which were adjusted as they grow.
He noted that this year’s 36 new beneficiaries joined 100 others who had previously benefited from the program.
The bank also offered an educational trust fund to support their education through to the university level.
Sogunle emphasised that the support aimed to help beneficiaries achieve their dreams and join a supportive community.
He also mentioned opportunities for future internships and graduate traineeships with the bank.
Founder and CEO of IfeanHealth, Stanbic IBTC’s partner for the Together4ALimb initiative, Ejike Anih, detailed the rigorous selection process for beneficiaries. Applicants from all 36 states and Abuja were screened, with criteria including being under 18 and from lower-income families.
The wife of the Lagos State Governor, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, praised the bank’s ongoing commitment to the initiative, noting that over 136 children had benefited so far. She highlighted the importance of creating an inclusive society and reaffirmed the commitment to providing quality education and employment opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their abilities.
Corps Commander – Medical, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Samson Okoigi, commended the bank’s dedication to restoring mobility and dignity to those who have lost their limbs.
He mentioned the emotional and psychological impact of limb loss and the importance of empowering individuals to regain independence and confidence.
Representative of the Consulate General of Germany in Lagos, Jochen Schindelarz, expressed pride in Germany’s association with the initiative.
He highlighted the use of Ottobock technology for the prosthetics and noted how the collaboration exemplified the strong ties between Germany and Nigeria, showcasing the impact businesses can make beyond profit.