Arthur Richard
The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) is set to partner with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to safeguard the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Lagos.
The General Manager of LASODA, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, disclosed this while welcoming a delegation from the NSCDC on a courtesy visit to the Agency at Alausa, Ikeja, recently.
She said that the collaboration will address critical issues surrounding accessibility and adaptability in both government and private offices, ensuring that PWDs can effectively utilise these spaces.
Emphasising the importance of adaptability in creating inclusive environments for PWDs, she pointed out that while laws mandate accessibility in all offices, the reality often falls short. “We have realised that accessibility might not be achieved in all cases; hence, we are focused on making buildings adaptable for PWDs to at least use”, Oyetunde-Lawal stated.
She added that with a focus on creating adaptable environments, the partnership aims to join hands with the NSCDC to enforce laws on accessibility and the protection of spaces and parks allocated to Persons with Disabilities.
“It also seeks to ensure buildings are more user-friendly for PWDs through advocacy and enlightenment. Recognising that complete accessibility may not always be achievable. We are being pragmatic in our approach by looking at adaptability in addressing the diverse needs of the PWD community”, she reiterated.
Speaking earlier, the team lead of the NSCDC, Mr. Amadu Okomayin, Head of Unit, PWD, NSCDC Lagos Command, expressed their willingness to collaborate with LASODA in enforcing Disability Laws regarding accessibility and other inclusive policies.
He emphasised the vital role that security agencies play in enforcing laws and order in society, saying “We are here to offer our services by collaborating with LASODA to ensure that laws guarding the protection of the rights of PWDs are adequately enforced”.
“We are all aware of the vital role that security agencies play in enforcing accessibility standards and protecting the interests of vulnerable populations. Through this partnership, LASODA and NSCDC will create a more inclusive society where PWDs can access and utilise public and private facilities with dignity and ease”, he said.
Other members of the NSCDC visiting team include Adeniyan Bolanle, Lawal Adebola, Daja Orilola, and Akinrinade Ganiyat.
EAI/TMS/KO
