The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), in collaboration with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (ROLAC) programme and the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), has renewed calls for inclusive policies and social justice for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
This was the thrust of a one-day capacity-building programme held at the Shomolu Local Government Secretariat on Monday, aimed at raising awareness about the rights of PWDs and strengthening institutional responses to their needs.
Speaking at the event, the General Manager of LASODA, Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, stressed the importance of creating an inclusive society where PWDs can thrive across all sectors—social, educational, economic, political, and environmental.
“This programme is part of a broader effort to promote inclusive policies and social justice that guarantee equal access and fair treatment for persons with disabilities,” she said. “It also supports ongoing reforms in the criminal justice system by building bridges for peaceful coexistence.”
Oyetunde-Lawal called on the Chairman of Shomolu Local Government, Abdullateef Ashimi, to establish a dedicated budget line for PWDs to ensure their rights and welfare are given priority at the grassroots level.
In his response, Chairman Ashimi pledged to take practical steps to integrate PWDs into local governance, assuring that their voices and needs would be considered in decision-making processes.
He noted that the collaboration between LASODA, ROLAC, and CCD reflects a shared commitment to creating a Lagos where no one is excluded.
Ashimi also expressed hope that the advocacy and training efforts would strengthen institutional frameworks, enhance policy implementation, and increase community support for PWDs across the state.
The event attracted disability rights advocates, local stakeholders, and community leaders, all united in advancing the goal of a more just and inclusive Lagos.
