Ensuring a Brighter Future for Children with Disabilities in Lagos
In a heartfelt commitment to the well-being of children with disabilities, the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has taken significant strides to enhance their protection and integration into society. At a recent stakeholders’ forum held at the Academy Guest House in Agidingbi, Ikeja, the General Manager of LASODA, Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, emphasized the importance of ensuring that children with disabilities receive the love, care, and opportunities they deserve.
The forum, themed “Ensuring the Protection of Children with Disabilities,” served as a platform for service providers, caregivers, and community stakeholders to come together and discuss the unique needs of these children, whether they are in private residences or government care facilities. Oyetunde-Lawal highlighted that creating safe, nurturing environments is crucial for their holistic development.
“A home should be a sanctuary where every child feels safe and accepted,” she stated passionately. For children with disabilities, a well-managed home is not just a refuge; it’s a vital lifeline that offers stability and support for their physical, emotional, and cognitive growth. Oyetunde-Lawal further pointed out that providing care for these children requires “additional thought, planning, and unwavering commitment.”
During her address, she encouraged all stakeholders to foster environments where children’s abilities can be nurtured, their differences celebrated, and their self-esteem bolstered. “Together, we can instill values that help our children grow into self-reliant, confident, and well-rounded individuals,” she asserted.
Highlighting the broader goals of the THEMES+ developmental agenda led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Oyetunde-Lawal reiterated LASODA’s commitment to pushing for social inclusion across education, employment, and community spaces. “Our mandate is clear: to create, enforce, and supervise policies that make Lagos a place where inclusion is standard and the rights of individuals with special needs are recognized and protected,” she explained.
This initiative is crucial, as it aims to eliminate discrimination and ensure equal opportunities for all, creating a future where children with disabilities can thrive alongside their peers. By offering support to these children, Lagos is paving the way for a more inclusive society, where every child has the chance to succeed and make a meaningful impact.
In a world that sometimes overlooks the challenges faced by those with disabilities, the commitment shown by LASODA shines a light on the transformative power of community support and understanding. With continued efforts and collaboration, Lagos State is fostering hope and resilience among its most vulnerable citizens.
