A non-profit organisation Christ’s Outreach on Disabilities (CODISA) has called for greater collaboration among disability groups and implementation of existing disability laws by the government.
CODISA said despite the passage of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, people with disabilities continue to be excluded from various opportunities and continue to face challenges in accessing basic health services.
The group’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr Ladi Sole, said: “The Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act is a landmark achievement, but its true potential remains unrealised. There is a persistent lack of awareness and enforcement of the Act, leaving many Nigerians with disabilities excluded from education, employment, and public life.
According to the group’s CEO, CODISA now in its 40th year is embarking on a year-long initiative called ‘40 Projects for 40 Years.’ Affiliated with the Chapel of the Healing Cross Idi-Araba and the Lagos University Teaching Hospital/CMUL, CODISA has become a leading voice for inclusion and empowerment and supports over 40 care facilities and institutions in Lagos State providing essential services to people with disabilities and other marginalised groups.
He said one of CODISA’s most significant achievements is the establishment of the Spinal Cord Injury Association of Nigeria (SCIAN), which helps people with spinal cord injuries live more independently.
“Over its four decades, CODISA has undertaken more than 500 projects. These include building and renovation of hostels and classrooms, providing equipment, palliative care and life-saving medical care all aimed at improving the lives of people with disabilities. The dedication of CODISA’s volunteers and support from donors has been central to this success,” he said.
As CODISA embarks on its next chapter under the leadership of Sole, it called for stronger collaboration among disability organisations for unified advocacy efforts. “Collaboration is key by working together, we can hold the government accountable and advocate for policies that truly empower people with disabilities,” Sole added.
Chairman of the Board of Directors, CODISA, Mr Amos Adeyeye, said: “In Nigeria, an estimated 29 million people with disabilities navigate the world with diverse abilities. This diversity provides a unique opportunity of untapped potential, waiting to contribute to Nigeria’s progress. At CODISA, we are working towards a future where disability will not be seen as a limitation, but as strength.”
