… As LASODA Rewards caregivers at International Disability Day celebration
The Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende has assured Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) of equal opportunities under the THEMESPlus Agenda of the present administration in the State.
Speaking at the International Disability Day celebration and recognition of PWD caregivers on Saturday by the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs, LASODA, the Commissioner informed that the THEMESPlus Agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu places emphasis on Youth Engagement, Gender Equality, and Social Inclusion.
During the celebration, the Commissioner reiterated the government’s pledge to ensure that PWDs are active participants in the THEMESPlus Agenda with a particular focus on providing equal opportunities for all citizens.
He said “You are the reason that we are all here, we will make life easier and better, we run an open door policy, kindly reach out to us whenever there are issues to be addressed.
“The THEMESPlus Agenda, with its pillars of Youth Engagement, Gender Equality, and Social Inclusion, signifies a holistic approach to governance. By assuring PWDs of equal opportunities, the government not only aligns with international best practices but also strengthens its commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable society.
“As the THEMESPlus Agenda continues to unfold, it reinforces the belief that every citizen, regardless of ability, has a crucial role to play in the development and prosperity of Lagos State.”
While giving a goodwill message at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Pharm. Oluwatoyin Oke-Osanyintolu said that the celebration of International Disability Day by LASODA is one of the ways of creating awareness about the plight of PWDs.
She added that the recognition and presentation of awards to some caregivers who have devoted their time and resources to the needs of PWD shows that the government’s acknowledgment of their significant contributions to improving the standard of living of PWDs.
Oke-Osanyintolu seized the opportunity of the event to encourage other caregivers who are yet to register with the state to do so, imploring other members of the society to join hands with the government to ensure PWDs are fully integrated into society.
On her part, the General Manager of LASODA, Mrs Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal said that the event also marks World Braille Day as a way of giving credence to the policy of inclusiveness by the Lagos State Government
Speaking on the theme of the International Disability Day celebration: “United in Action to rescue and achieve the SDGs for, with and by persons with disabilities”, Oyetunde-Lawal stated that there is a need for joint efforts by all relevant stakeholders to make life more liveable for PWDs.
She reiterated the mission of the agency to provide a platform of transformative solutions for inclusive development, opportunities, accessibility, and social justice that will integrate PWDs into society.
As part of the celebration, the General Manager revealed that LASODA will be distributing Guide Canes/ Slates and Stylus to students with visual impairment in addition to recognizing and appreciating Homes, Teachers, Coaches, Sign Language Interpreters, Parents, and Caregivers who have set exceptional standards in catering for the needs of persons with disabilities.
She noted that individuals like Dr. Lekan Muhammad who is a Ph.D. holder and the first deaf lecturer at the Lagos State University and other PWDs doing great in their chosen fields and excelling against all barriers in society have proven that disabilities should not limit the heightwhich anyone can attain.
In her words: “It is pertinent to note that these groups of people that would be recognized today are groups that are passion-driven towards ensuring the promotion and improvement of PWDs. They provide adequate education, healthcare, and assistance to them, thereby improving their societal self-worth.
“To all the 70 homes, 7 inclusive Secondary Schools, and 31 Inclusive Primary Schools registered with the Agency, I thank you for your contributions to the cause of Persons with Disability.”
Guest Speaker at the event, Mrs Crystal Chigbu, called on the State Government to emphasize inclusive policy that takes into cognizance the needs of PWDs.
She harped on the need for improved and accessible transportation, adaptable technology as well as education for all PWDs regardless of the nature of their disabilities.
Chigbu encouraged PWDs to stand up and speak for themselves, they should ensure that they are not silent whenever their rights are trampled. Parents of PWDs should also take it upon themselves to speak up on behalf of their children as well as Civil Society Groups, by doing this the plight of PWDs can get the required attention.”
