People With Disabilities Seek Stronger Policies From Governors

People Living With Disabilities have appealed to Lagos State governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his Ogun State counterpart Prince Dapo Abiodun, and other governors in the country to further champion policies and initiatives that would alleviate the sufferings and stigmatization of people living with disabilities in the society.

The call was made by the coordinator of the Kehinde Oshilaja Foundation, Comrade Kehinde Oshilaja, during a thanksgiving service marking the foundation’s annual get-together. The event was held at the Ijo Idapo Mimo Aladura Church, Ebute-Metta, Lagos, and drew members of the disability community, religious leaders, and well-wishers.

Oshilaja expressed profound appreciation to the church for its remarkable act of generosity, awarding a comprehensive scholarship to one of the foundation’s members, Jamiu Ewetunde, an orphan living with multiple disabilities, including hearing and speech impairments as well as physical mobility challenges. The scholarship covers his education from primary school through to the university level.

Describing the gesture as “rare and exemplary,” Oshilaja emphasized that such acts of kindness should serve as a model for governments and institutions across the country.

“This is a rare feat that should be emulated by all and sundry, especially by our governments at every level. The spirit of compassion demonstrated by the Ijo Idapo Mimo Aladura Church shows that inclusive support for vulnerable members of society is both possible and impactful. Notably, Jamiu is not even a member of the church, yet they chose to extend this life-changing opportunity to him,” he said.

Announcing the scholarship, the spokesperson of the church, Dr. Gbenga Awe, disclosed that the initiative was undertaken with the support and approval of the Deputy Primate of the church, Samuel O. Opadola. He explained that the decision was inspired by the church’s commitment to Christian values of love, charity, and service to humanity.

Awe commended Oshilaja for his unwavering dedication to advocating for the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities, often placing their needs above his personal interests.

“Comrade Oshilaja’s selfless commitment to the cause of persons with disabilities reflects the biblical injunction to love our neighbours as ourselves. His advocacy continues to inspire collective action towards building a more compassionate society,” Awe stated.

The event featured prayers, goodwill messages, and a renewed call for collaborative efforts among government agencies, faith-based organisations, and civil society groups to dismantle barriers confronting persons with disabilities in Nigeria.

Stakeholders at the gathering emphasized that beyond charitable gestures, there is an urgent need for sustained policy implementation, improved accessibility, and expanded educational and economic opportunities for PLWDs, in line with global best practices and Nigeria’s commitment to inclusive development.