In a powerful demonstration of solidarity and leadership in disability inclusion, Aare (Honourable) Tolu Bankole, the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Leader for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), has donated the sum of One Million Naira (₦1,000,000) to the Ogun State Chapter of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), reaffirming his unwavering commitment to the empowerment and welfare of persons with disabilities in the state.
The donation was made during a strategic engagement held on Monday, 6th January 2026, at the JONAPWD Centre in Ogun State. The meeting brought together Ogun JONAPWD Executive Members, Cluster Chairmen and their representatives, as well as selected cluster members, providing a robust platform for in-depth discussions on the pressing challenges confronting persons with disabilities across the state.
During the interactive session, participants raised critical issues affecting the disability community in Ogun State, including the slow implementation of the Ogun State Disability Law, the dilapidated condition and poor maintenance of the JONAPWD Centre, mobility and transportation challenges, limited access to the state health insurance scheme, rising costs of education, and the shortage of special education teachers in public schools. Members also stressed the urgent need for the establishment of a Special School in Ota, noting the growing population of children with disabilities who remain excluded from quality education.
Responding to the concerns, Aare (Hon.) Tolu Bankole assured the gathering of his continuous advocacy at the highest levels of government. He disclosed that he had previously engaged His Excellency, Governor Dapo Abiodun, as well as the Chief of Staff, on the importance of fully implementing the Ogun State Disability Law. According to him, the law remains a vital tool for protecting the rights of persons with disabilities and fostering an inclusive society, and he pledged to persist in following up until its full implementation becomes a reality.
Beyond advocacy, the APC disability leader emphasized the importance of sustainability, ownership, and internal responsibility within the disability movement. He encouraged Ogun JONAPWD to initiate internal fundraising across its clusters to support the routine maintenance of the JONAPWD Centre and sustain activities that would keep disability issues visible on the public and government agenda. The association embraced the proposal, acknowledging it as a collective responsibility that would strengthen unity and self-reliance.
To immediately support these efforts, Aare (Hon.) Tolu Bankole announced the donation of ₦1,000,000, earmarked for minor renovation works at the JONAPWD Centre, particularly the meeting hall, as well as to stimulate regular activities capable of attracting stakeholders and renewed government attention. In a further show of support, he also donated five bags of rice to assist members of the association.
The Honourable also advised Ogun JONAPWD to formally document and forward other unresolved concerns to the Governor through the Chief of Staff, while copying his office to ensure sustained follow-up. He urged members to remain resilient, proactive, and united, stressing that collective action remains the strongest force in advancing the rights, dignity, and welfare of persons with disabilities.
Demonstrating their readiness to act, Ogun JONAPWD immediately commenced the process of identifying priority areas within the Centre requiring urgent intervention. Artisans have already been contacted to provide quotations, paving the way for renovation work to begin without delay.
This timely intervention by Aare (Hon.) Tolu Bankole not only provides much-needed material support but also sends a strong message about the importance of inclusive governance, accountability, and sustainable development. His actions continue to position him as a frontline advocate for disability inclusion and a dependable ally in the quest to build a more inclusive and equitable Ogun State for persons with disabilities.
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