The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) has commissioned newly constructed disability-friendly health facilities aimed at improving healthcare access for people with disabilities in Osun State.

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Speaking at the commissioning, the National President of JONAPWD, Abdullahi Aliyu Usman, stressed the importance of accessible medical infrastructure for persons with disabilities.

He said the initiative addresses long-standing challenges faced by PWDs in accessing basic healthcare.

“It is very difficult for a woman in a wheelchair to come for antenatal, and that is why it is important to create rooms and facilities so they can easily have access to see the doctor,” he said.

According to Usman, “The construction of disability-friendly toilets is essential because whoever is a human being will definitely need to ease themselves, and that is where accessibility becomes necessary.”

He noted that, although the state boasts of numerous primary healthcare centres, only a few currently meet accessibility standards.

Usman called on government and private organisations to contribute to improving the welfare of persons with disabilities. “This project is an example for the Osun State government and private organisations to embrace their social responsibility, so that people with disabilities can enjoy their fundamental human rights like everyone else,” he stressed.

The Osun State Chairman of JONAPWD, Stephen Oluwafemi Idowu, described the development as a major milestone for the PWD community.

Idowu emphasised that the initiative should serve as a lesson for all sectors to prioritise inclusiveness.

“It is a great joy for us when we talk about everything, because health is first. This project makes life easier for those with disabilities, especially in accessing hospitals and using facilities without hindrance,” he noted.

Representing the Executive Secretary of the State Primary Healthcare Board, Dr. Adeleke Lookman, praised the initiative, highlighting its wider benefits.

He urged both public and private institutions to emulate the effort. “This project is for the general public. It benefits persons with disabilities and makes life easier and more comfortable for them,” Lookman said.

The project consultant, Raheem Yussuf Olatunji, explained that the construction adhered strictly to the national accessibility code, noting, “We considered the Disability Act, including the minimum standards required for designing toilets for persons with disabilities.”

He also explained the installed emergency alarm system designed for deaf users. “If there is any form of danger, the light reflection alerts a deaf person who may not hear sound, enabling them to respond quickly,” he added.