By Sejoro Ekundayo – Inclusive News Network
The Lagos State First Lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has made a clarion call for the full integration and inclusion of deaf women and persons with disabilities (PWDs) across all sectors of society. According to her, this is not only a moral duty but also essential for sustainable development.
Dr. Ibijoke expressed this sentiment during the International Women’s Day event organized by the Lagos State Deaf Women Association (LSDWA) on October 12, 2024. This year’s theme, “Inspire Inclusion,” emphasizes the need for active measures to build a more inclusive society.
Delivering the keynote address on her behalf, Mrs. Wydad Mustapha highlighted the importance of collective responsibility: “It is our shared obligation to ensure that persons with disabilities are included in every aspect of societal life. We must reject all forms of segregation, whether intentional or unintentional, and promote inclusivity across all sectors.”
The First Lady voiced her confidence that if adequately supported, persons with disabilities can significantly contribute to Nigeria’s socio-economic growth. “With the right encouragement and opportunities, people with disabilities can contribute immensely to the nation’s socio-economic development,” she affirmed.
She also praised the Lagos State Government for adopting an all-inclusive governance model, ensuring that no one is left behind. “Lagos operates on an inclusive governance principle—regardless of gender, ability, or disability, everyone has a place in our society,” she added.
Dr. Ibijoke called for comprehensive inclusivity strategies that would equip society with the tools needed to support people with disabilities. “Educating healthcare professionals, teachers, law enforcement officers, and other key figures on how to assist and integrate PWDs is crucial to creating an inclusive society,” she said.
According to her, achieving an inclusive society requires removing both physical and attitudinal barriers that hinder PWDs from fully participating in society. “A truly inclusive society offers equal opportunities to all, irrespective of ability. The barriers preventing people with disabilities from meaningful engagement—whether physical or societal—must be dismantled,” she urged.
Although the path to inclusivity may be long, Dr. Ibijoke expressed optimism, stating, “Each step we take moves us closer to a world where people with disabilities are no longer marginalized but celebrated for their contributions and humanity.”
Also speaking at the event, the General Manager of the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, urged deaf women to intensify efforts in raising public awareness about sign language.
Represented by Mr. Mac-Humphrey O. Browne from LASODA’s Medical Rehabilitation and Mobility Devices Department, she encouraged deaf women to register with LASODA to benefit from the state’s initiatives, including empowerment programs, accessible transportation, and other opportunities.
Oluwayemisi Olaitan Alabi, Chairman of the Lagos State Deaf Women Association (LSDWA), expressed her gratitude for the continued success of the event, which has now been celebrated for five consecutive years. In her welcome address, she emphasized the theme “Inspire Inclusion,” explaining that inspiring inclusion opens doors to countless opportunities for deaf women and the wider PWD community.
The event featured presentations on “Inspire Inclusion” by Mrs. Abimbola Onayinka, an open chat with parents by Dr. Odutola Odusanya, and a session on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence by Mrs. Ramota Agbabiaka.
:INN