The Lagos State Government has reiterated its dedication to creating an inclusive society for persons with disabilities, vowing to embed disability inclusion across all state policies and development initiatives.
According to The PUNCH, this commitment was made known during the 27th Annual Sports Day organized by the Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind, held recently at the Yaba College of Technology, Lagos.
The event, themed “Champions of Inclusivity,” featured a vibrant array of athletic competitions including long jump, goal ball, tug of war, and a 50-meter race. Red House emerged victorious overall.
Representing the state Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Director of Disability Affairs at the Lagos chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Ibrahim Akinremi, said the Sanwo-Olu administration remains unwavering in its pledge to leave no one behind.
“The Lagos State Government recognizes the rights and potential of persons with disabilities and is taking actionable steps to ensure no one is left behind,” he said.
“From inclusive sports to grassroots empowerment, we are working toward a society that offers equal opportunities to all.”
Akinremi also revealed that the state is establishing Disability Desks in all local governments to improve accessibility, data gathering, and tailor-made interventions for people with disabilities.
He added that plans are underway to fully implement the 5% employment quota for persons with disabilities, as mandated in Nigeria’s national policy.
“Beyond compliance, our goal is to build a culture where disability is no longer seen as a limitation but as a catalyst for innovation and support,” he added.
The sports event was supported by several private sector partners including Union Bank, Bluebulb Financials, Golden Penny, and the Daramola Dynasty Foundation.
Speaking at the event, CEO of Bluebulb Financials, Ola Daramola, noted: “While we simplify cross-border payments at Bluebulb, our heart is in community development. Through our foundation, we support education, health, and social empowerment. Today, we proudly celebrate these athletes and this powerful movement for inclusivity.”
Union Bank’s Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Olufunmilola Aluko, also emphasized the bank’s long-standing commitment to social impact. “With over 108 years of service, Union Bank remains focused on uplifting lives through platforms like UnionCares and Edu360,” she said. “To our athletes: your resilience is a masterclass in courage. You inspire not only today, but every day.”
Chairperson of the Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind, Mrs. Arit Tunde Imoyo, expressed gratitude to donors and used the occasion to appeal for increased government support.
“Our centre is nearing 70 years, but our facilities are deteriorating. This is a residential training facility, and we urgently need government funding to maintain a conducive environment,” she said.
Imoyo also stressed the need for improved accessibility infrastructure and public awareness, stating, “The same level of investment allocated to universities should be extended to training centres like ours. This is where lives are transformed.”
The event was a celebration of talent and resilience, but also a reminder of the work that remains to achieve full inclusion for persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
