Lagos: The Deaf Supporters Development Initiative (DSDI) has affirmed its support for Nigeria’s leadership under President Bola Tinubu, urging greater inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in government policies. DSDI President, Mr Afolabi Dahunsi, made the call during a public lecture on Democracy, Disability, and Good Governance in Lagos on Thursday, commemorating the 2025 International Day for PWDs.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event, organised by DSDI, had the theme: ‘The Renewed Hope Agenda: A Life-Saving Intervention for the Deaf and Persons with Disabilities.’ Dahunsi highlighted that Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda promised to include PWDs in governance, stressing the need to actualise the commitment. He noted that in spite of the Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018, discrimination persists, with many PWDs remaining unemployed and economically marginalised.
Dahunsi emphasized the urgency for the government to dismantle discrimination against PWDs. He pointed out that economic hardships disproportionately impact PWDs and that short-term palliatives are insufficient to address unemployment in the community. He also highlighted the heightened vulnerability of deaf individuals to crimes due to communication barriers, urging the government to address these security concerns.
Speaking on the sidelines, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, represented by Mr Yusuf Olukolu, highlighted that societal attitudes and systemic barriers exacerbate the challenges faced by PWDs. He advocated for the inclusion of PWDs in decision-making, community programmes, and public discussions. Omotoso also outlined the state’s initiatives, such as the creation of the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) and the implementation of infrastructure upgrades, like accessible BRT terminals, public parks, and government complexes, aimed at ensuring the dignity and rights of PWDs are respected.