Osogbo, Osun State – The administration of Governor Senator Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke has once again reaffirmed its commitment to advancing disability inclusion in Osun State, with a pledge to continue implementing life-changing programs for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Speaking at an empowerment and scholarship program held in Ede, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Disability Matters, Hon. Olanrewaju Oladosu , assured that the governor remains determined to prioritize disability-friendly policies and initiatives that touch lives across the state.
Permanent Secretary Commends Governor Adeleke’s Disability-Friendly Achievements
In his goodwill message, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Special Needs expressed gratitude to Governor Adeleke for making “meaningful impact in the lives of Osun people,” particularly PWDs. He highlighted landmark achievements of the administration, including:
- Signing the Osun Disabilities Act into law.
- Establishing the Bureau for Persons with Disabilities to oversee and coordinate disability matters.
- Expanding access to government services for PWDs across Osun State.
He also commended Hon. Oladosu for serving as a bridge between government and the disability community, noting that his dedication has amplified the voices of PWDs.
Stakeholders Hail Adeleke’s Inclusive Governance
Also speaking, Hon. Adewolu Jelili Aderibigbe described the Adeleke administration as one that has delivered dividends of democracy beyond promises. He emphasized that road projects and other infrastructural developments are bringing relief and opportunities to the people, including those with disabilities.
A representative of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment also applauded Governor Adeleke for creating an enabling environment for inclusion. She promised to work with the Office of the Special Assistant on Disability Matters to expand support for PWDs in the state.
Grassroots Empowerment Backed by Local Government
The Executive Chairman of Ede South Local Government, Alhaji Lukman Afolabi (popularly known as Abere Soose), spoke glowingly of Governor Adeleke’s longstanding dedication to disability inclusion. He reminded the audience that even before becoming governor, Adeleke laid the foundation for the Ede JONAPWD Vocational Training Centre, a project later completed under his administration.
To further demonstrate his support, Alhaji Afolabi donated ₦150,000 towards the empowerment of PWDs at the event, describing the program as one that “truly touches lives at the grassroots.”
Hon. Oladosu’s Five-Point Disability Agenda
In his address, Hon. Oladosu thanked God, Governor Adeleke, Osun State Chief of Staff Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye, Hon. Bamidele Salam, and the CEO of Real Care Humanity Foundation for their support.
He outlined the governor’s disability agenda, anchored on five key pillars, namely:
- Imole Educational Scholarships Support
- Imole Disabilities Empowerment Initiative
- Imole Disabilities Agro-Ability Program
- Skills Acquisition and Training Support
- Community Integration and Social Welfare Programs
Oladosu revealed that hundreds of PWDs have already benefited from the initiatives. Items distributed during the program included:
- 1,500 notebooks for children with disabilities.
- POS machines with ₦10,000 startup funds, sponsored by Alhaji Lukman Afolabi.
- Scholarships for children with disabilities.
- Charcoal to support small-scale businesses.
- Grinding machines to boost livelihood opportunities.
He assured beneficiaries that more empowerment projects would follow, in line with Governor Adeleke’s “Imole” vision of light, hope, and inclusive development.
Goodwill from Child Labour Committee
Adding weight to the event, a goodwill message was delivered by Olawuyi Temitope Adeola Isaac, on behalf of Mr. Solomon Alabi, Chairman of the State Steering Committee on the Elimination of Child Labour and State Controller, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, alongside Desk Officer Mr. Olagoke Falohun.
In his remarks, Olawuyi congratulated Hon. Oladosu for one year of impactful service, describing his work as “a shining example of leadership that uplifts, includes, and gives hope to adults and children with disabilities.”
He also reminded guests of the urgent need to combat child labour, stressing that “every child deserves love, education, and the chance to grow in a safe environment.” On behalf of the Steering Committee, he formally invited Hon. Oladosu to join the fight against child labour in Osun State, a move that would further strengthen inclusive governance.
A Milestone Worth Celebrating
As stakeholders, beneficiaries, and government representatives celebrated this milestone, the message was clear: under Governor Adeleke’s leadership, Osun State is laying down strong foundations for disability inclusion and social protection.
Hon. Oladosu reaffirmed the administration’s promise:
“The purpose of this initiative is to touch the lives of persons with disabilities across Osun State. With the support of His Excellency, we will continue to empower, educate, and create opportunities for our people.”
With testimonies pouring in from across sectors, the event underscored that disability inclusion is no longer a token gesture in Osun—it is a core pillar of governance.
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