On December 3, 2024, in commemoration of International Day for Persons With Disabilities, the Oshilaja Foundation expressed its support for the initiatives of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu aimed at promoting the welfare of persons with disabilities (PWDs). The foundation particularly applauded the establishment of the Lagos State Office of Disability Affairs, which is perceived as a pivotal step towards a more inclusive society. During pre-celebration speeches delivered by the foundation’s coordinator, Kehinde Oshilaja, at various venues in the Mainland Local Government Area, it was underscored that while the state has made commendable progress, there is still a pressing need for comprehensive data on the population of PWDs in Nigeria.
Oshilaja emphasized the importance of state support, noting the positive impact of government provisions such as free transportation and subsidized healthcare for PWDs. The Oshilaja Foundation applauded these measures as crucial in alleviating the economic pressures experienced by individuals with disabilities in Lagos. Additionally, he encouraged other states to take note and potentially adopt similar initiatives to create wider support networks for PWDs across Nigeria. There is a growing recognition that state-level interventions are critical for fortifying the infrastructure necessary for ensuring the rights and wellbeing of disabled individuals.
In his remarks, Oshilaja also conveyed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his broader economic reform initiatives, stressing the necessity for the federal government to amplify its efforts toward supporting the PWD community. He mentioned that the systemic challenges faced by PWDs are multifaceted, affecting their access to various social and economic opportunities. Therefore, he urged improvements in data collection regarding the population of PWDs, acknowledging that accurate statistics are vital for formulating informed policies and programs catering to this demographic.
Earlier in September, PWDs across Nigeria voiced their concerns regarding the lack of infrastructure, educational opportunities, and supportive policies during an event unveiling a mural created by SightSavers Nigeria in Abuja. This event served as a precursor to discussions at the 79th United Nations General Assembly focused on sustainable development, peace, and ensuring no one is left behind. The insights shared by PWDs during this unveiling highlighted persistent inequalities and underscored the urgent need for collaborative action to enhance their living conditions, a sentiment echoed by the Oshilaja Foundation’s advocacy efforts.
The thematic focus of the UN discussions, “Leaving no one behind: Acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development, and human dignity for present and future generations,” aligned closely with the messages articulated by Oshilaja and other advocates for PWD rights. The acknowledgment of shared humanity and the importance of inclusivity in policy-making were central to the discourse, reinforcing that the advancement of society hinges on the equitable treatment of all its members, including those with disabilities.
In summary, the advocacy spotlight on December 3 served as both a celebration of progress made in Lagos State and a call to action for broader systemic change across Nigeria. The Oshilaja Foundation’s commitment to data-driven initiatives and the strategic role of government support exemplify the pathways toward an inclusive society where PWDs can live with dignity and equal opportunity. As the conversation continues, stakeholders from various sectors must remain engaged in efforts to dismantle barriers and advocate for sustainable practices that prioritize the needs of one of society’s most marginalized groups.
