The Kwara State government, in collaboration with the Voice of Disability Initiative (VDI) and the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), marked the 2024 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) on December 3 with a series of events promoting inclusion and equal rights for persons with disabilities.
The day began with a road walk from the Kwara State Library Complex to the Ministry of Social Development, focusing on the advocacy for the establishment of a Kwara State Disability Rights Commission. Supported by AMPLIFYCHANGE, a UK-based organization, the event also included a town hall meeting and the presentation of the VDI Most Disability Inclusive State Award to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, received on his behalf by the State Commissioner for Social Development, Mrs. Abosede Olaitan-Buraimoh.
Speaking at the event, Governor AbdulRazaq reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities. Represented by Mrs. Olaitan-Buraimoh, he said, "The welfare of persons with disabilities is paramount to this administration, and we pledge to continue supporting them when needed." The governor called for a renewed dedication to creating an inclusive society.
VDI Executive Director, Barrister Catherine Edeh, praised the governor for his support but appealed for the establishment of a Disability Rights Commission to enforce the implementation of the State Disability Law. “The commission will ensure the rights of persons with disabilities are protected and policies are effectively implemented,” she emphasized.
Comrade Yusuf Bashir, Chairman of JONAPWD Kwara State Chapter, highlighted the significance of IDPD, established by the United Nations in 1992, and thanked the state government for progress made so far. “We appreciate the implementation of the Kwara State Disability Law and look forward to the establishment of the commission to oversee policies that improve the lives of persons with disabilities,” he said.
Special Assistant on Special Needs to the Governor, Mr. Soliu Habeeb-Babaoloye, reiterated the administration’s commitment to creating equal opportunities. “We celebrate the achievements of individuals with disabilities and pledge to continue fostering a society that values diversity and promotes inclusivity,” he stated.
In a related address, Comrade Issa Aremu, Director-General of the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS), called for strengthened efforts to uphold the dignity and rights of persons with disabilities. "By promoting inclusivity and equality, we enrich our communities and build a society where inclusiveness is a lived reality," he said.
The event underscored the power of collective advocacy and reaffirmed Kwara State's commitment to a more inclusive future for persons with disabilities.
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