Adeloye: Revolutionising Special Needs Care In Nigeria

The founder and chief responsibility officer of OAKonsult Disabilities Outreach, Mrs. Olufunke Adeloye, is a formidable force in Nigeria’s disability advocacy landscape.

With a deep-seated passion for special needs care and inclusion, Adeloye has dedicated her career to addressing the gaps in disability support and intervention. Adeloye plans to establish Nigeria’s first world-class disability support center, marking a significant milestone in the country’s healthcare and social welfare system.

A Personal Mission Born From Tragedy

Adeloye’s commitment to disability care stems from a deeply personal experience—the loss of her daughter, Abigail, who spent her last 18 months in a specialized UK facility. Witnessing firsthand the impact of structured disability support abroad, she became determined to replicate such a model in Nigeria. ‘Losing Abigail was devastating, but it reinforced my resolve to ensure that no other family has to struggle to find quality care for their child with disabilities,’ she vowed.

This personal tragedy shaped her vision for OAKonsult Disabilities. Rather than allowing grief to consume her, she transformed it into a driving force to change the landscape of special needs care in Nigeria.

Establishing A World-class Disability Support Center

Under Adeloye’s leadership, OAKonsult Disabilities is pioneering a multi-million-dollar facility designed to serve 1,000 children annually. Situated on 35 acres of land generously gifted by Oolo Community in Oyo state, the centre, known as Oak Centre Prime will provide residential care for 250 children. The facility will integrate physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language therapy, among others, creating a holistic environment for children with disabilities.

‘This is not just a good-to-have; it is a must-have. We must establish a structured, world-class system that ensures children with disabilities receive the care they deserve,’ Adeloye asserted.

Adeloye’s influence extends beyond infrastructure—she has successfully mobilised local communities and stakeholders to back the initiative. Initially, OAKonsult Disabilities sought 12.5 acres for the facility, but the overwhelming support from local leaders led to an increased allocation of 35 acres. However, despite this encouragement, securing sustainable funding remains a challenge. “We need partners who recognize the urgency of this vision and are willing to invest in transforming the lives of thousands of children,” she appealed.

Beyond financial backing, Adeloye plans to engage policymakers, advocating for government involvement in the project. A project of this magnitude requires government backing, she emphasised.

With an estimated 1,500 staff members required to operate the center, the project will generate employment and create business opportunities within the local economy. The facility will also serve as a training hub for caregivers and therapists, ensuring the sustainability of quality disability care in Nigeria.

“This is a game-changer. Families who can afford private care will contribute financially, while grants and international funding will ensure accessibility for low-income families. We are not asking for handouts—we are asking for collective action,” she explained.

For Adeloye, this initiative is not just a professional endeavor—it is her life’s work. Inspired by her daughter and driven by a vision of an inclusive Nigeria, she remains committed to seeing the project come to fruition. “This must be built together. It is not about me—it is about the children, the families, and the future of our society,” she reiterated.

Career And Education 

Mrs. Olufunke Adeloye is the founder and Chief Responsibility Officer of OAKonsult Disabilities Outreach.

Before establishing this initiative, she built a diverse career in disability support, human resources, and capacity development.

She served as a Senior Independent Support Worker, Family Support Worker, and Parent Key Worker at Bromley Mencap in the United Kingdom. She also held key roles at MTN Nigeria as a Human Resources Advisor in Shared Services and Learning & Development.

Additionally, she worked at Human Capacity Development Consultants as a senior consultant in recruitment, selection, and career management, as well as a marketing and research officer.

Adeloye holds a Master of Arts (MA) in International Social Policy from the University of Kent, Canterbury, UK, a Master of Science (MSc) in Geography from the University of Lagos, and a Bachelor of Science (BSc Hons) in Geography from the University of Lagos.

A passionate advocate for disability care, Adeloye challenges the notion that it should be seen as charity, emphasising its role as a socio-economic investment. With strong community support, growing international partnerships, and a well-defined strategy, she is poised to make a lasting impact on Nigeria’s disability care sector.

Her unwavering dedication serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring many to join the mission of building a more inclusive and compassionate society.