Lagos State Government, yesterday, tasked stakeholders on promoting inclusivity and protecting the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). It said that ensuring the economic, social, educational, political, and environmental inclusion of PWDs is key to achieving a more sustainable and equitable society, as well as the overall quality of life.

General Manager of Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, who spoke during a one-day capacity-building programme held at the Somolu Local Council Secretariat on Monday, said that the event was part of the ongoing efforts to promote inclusive policies that guarantee equal access to social justice for PWDs.

She said that LASODA, in collaboration with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (ROLAC) programme and the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), have collaborated to promote social cohesion and foster a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by PWDs

The initiative, according to her, seeks to sensitise individuals, organisations, and communities on the importance of inclusivity and the protection of the rights of PWDs.

She noted that the programme would also contribute to reforming the criminal justice system by building bridges for peaceful coexistence, where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive.

Oyetunde-Lawal further urged the Chairman of Somolu Local Council to create a dedicated fiscal point for PWDs in the council’s budget to ensure their needs are met and their rights are adequately protected.

In his remark, Chairman of the council, Abdullateef Ashimi, pledged to take concrete steps to ensure that PWDs have a voice in local governance and can effectively access their rights and entitlements.

He averred that the partnership between LASODA, ROLAC, and CCD underscores a shared commitment to creating a state where no one is left behind. He, however, expressed optimism that the knowledge and advocacy skills gained from the programme would translate into stronger institutional frameworks, better policy implementation, and increased community support for PWDs, paving the way for a more inclusive and just society.