The Association of Persons with Disabilities (APWD) on Wednesday decried high level of negligence being experienced by the disability community in Badagry.
Mr Peter Sejoro, the Chairman, Badagry Chapter of the Association expressed his displeasure during the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in Badagry.
The theme of the event was titled: ” United In Action to Rescue and Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for, With and By Persons With Disabilities”.
According to the chairman, the level of negligence faced by disability community in Badagry is too high.
“Consequently, they face 10 times various challenges that hinder their full and equal participation in society.
“These include limited access to public buildings, limited access to education and empowerment opportunities, inadequate education and employment opportunities, social exclusion, and insufficient healthcare services.
” These are just few of so many challenges faced by Persons with Disabilities in Badagry on a daily basis,” he said.
Sejoro called on the government at all levels and private sectors to do more for People with Disabilities in Badagry.
He, however, commended the public and private sectors for their support to the association in their little way.
The Association however calls on government at all levels and private sectors to do more for persons with disabilities in Badagry.
“We are using this opportunity to call on the Chaiman of Badagry Local Government, Mr Olusegun Onilude to implement Local Government Disability Policy Framework launched by Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities.
“This is by establishing a disability desk for Persons with Disabilities in the council to effectively address the needs and rights of Persons with Disabilities in Badagry.
“Also appoint a Senior Special Assistant and Special Assistant to the council chairman on disabilities matters.
“By establishing a disability desk, you are giving priority to the welfare and needs of Persons with Disabilities in Badagry,” he said.
Mrs Funmi Ogunro, the Founder, Friends of the Deaf Foundation urged the Nigerians to stop to always assist the special people.
Ogunro said her foundation had trained over 3,000 persons with disabilities in a school she established in memory of her late sister who died while studied in Universe of Ilorin.
In her remarks, Prof Bilikisu Latiaji-Okunneye, the Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University of Education, Ijanikin, said the institution had established the Department of Adult and Special Education to take care of Persons With Disabilities.
Latiaji-Okunneye, was represented by Dr Dele Monotoye, the Acting Dean, College of Specialised and Professional Education, LASUED.
According to the VC, in the next few years, we hope that the department would have been fully established so that we can train people in special needs.
Friends and families of people with disabilities graced the event with them.
Related Stories
April 28, 2024