A group known as Eagles Voice International for Disability Rights has called for better policies and government programmes to support Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWDs).
 
Its Founder, Oluwakemi Odusanya, made the appeal at a one-day workshop  for women with disability held at the Resource Centre for the Blind in Yaba, Lagos, to  mark this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD).
 
The workshop educated women with disabilities on sexual and reproductive health, self-discovery, leadership development, and business growth. No fewer than 40 women with various disabilities, including the visually impaired, autistic, little persons (dwarfs), and persons with albinism attended the event.

Odusanya, who is a visually impaired on-air personality and personal development strategist,  maintained that people with disabilities deserve dignity, access to job opportunities, and inclusion in national development plans.
 
She said: “This event is not just about education; it’s about empowerment — equipping women with the mindset and strategies to own their power.”
 
The guest speaker, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde Lawal, who is the General Manager, Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), harped on the importance of early detection of cancer, healthy lifestyles, and proper nutrition.
 
She urged participants to prioritise intentional family planning and reduce unhealthy habits.
 
Similarly, Mrs. Elizabeth Idowu, a visually-impaired teacher, educated attendees on contraceptive methods, stressing the importance of informed consent and bodily autonomy.
 
Founder of NATINEEE, Ms. Oluwa Enitan Sophie, advocated for early sex education to prevent abuse and misinformation.
 
“Parents must teach their children about their bodies and consent to avoid learning from misleading sources,” she emphasised.
 
Executive Director, Resource Centre for the Blind, Mrs. Ayinla Temitayo, praised the organisers, saying: “This workshop has provided valuable knowledge that will lead to better health outcomes and a stronger sense of self-worth.”
 
She called for more collaboration to sustain such initiatives.
 
Speaking through an interpreter, a deaf participant, Chinyere Okafor, said: “It is rare for us to access this kind of information in a way we can understand. I appreciate Eagles Voice International for creating this opportunity.”