Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria – May 31, 2024
In a significant development for disability rights and inclusion, the Disability Not A Barrier Initiative (DINABI Nigeria) has lauded the Ekiti State Government for its ongoing commitment to the inclusion and accessibility of persons with disabilities (PWDs). The commendation follows a resolution passed during the Ekiti State Executive Council meeting, which underscored the importance of adhering to the Ekiti State Disability Law, 2020, particularly regarding the accessibility of public facilities.
Since the inception of the current administration under Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, Ekiti State has made substantial strides in promoting disability inclusion. These efforts have notably benefited the three Special Schools in the state, reflecting a broader commitment to creating an inclusive society. In a press release dated May 30, 2024, and signed by the Ekiti State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, the State Executive Council emphasized compliance with the disability law as a priority.
The council’s resolution, highlighted in item 7 of the meeting memo, reads: “The state executive council directed that all public buildings in the state must comply with the disability law by the end of 2025. This includes providing ramps and equipment to assist people with mobility difficulties in accessing buildings with ease.” Public buildings covered by this directive include business malls, supermarkets, churches, mosques, educational institutions, banks, and official buildings.
DINABI Nigeria’s Executive Director, Engr. Olajide Funso B., expressed joy over this progressive move and praised the Ekiti State government’s efforts. “We commend the Ekiti State government under the leadership of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for this great and courageous step towards inclusion,” he said. “We also appreciate the efforts of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Agboola Adetoun Funmilayo, and other SSAs on disability.”
This positive development aligns with one of the major demands from the recently concluded Disability Rights Fund (DRF) funded project on the Accessibility of Public Facilities and Services in Ekiti State, implemented in 2022/23. The project aimed to ensure that public facilities are accessible to all, reflecting a commitment to a disability-inclusive society.
In addition to applauding the state’s efforts, DINABI Nigeria has called for further actions to reinforce the commitment to inclusion. Specifically, the organization urges Governor Oyebanji and his administration to appoint a person with a disability as the next Executive Secretary of the Ekiti State Office for Disability Affairs (EKSODA). This call is in line with Part VIII Section 40 (1)(a-c) of the Ekiti State Disability Law, which mandates that the Executive Secretary should be a person with a disability.
“We further call on our amiable State Governor and his government to ensure the appointment of a person with a disability as the next Executive Secretary of the Ekiti State Office for Disability Affairs,” said Engr. Olajide Funso B. “This appointment is not only a legal requirement but also a crucial step in demonstrating true inclusion and representation.”
DINABI Nigeria has pledged its continued support to the Ekiti State government, the people of Ekiti, and the entire disability community. The organization remains dedicated to advocating for a society free from discrimination, harassment, and exclusion.
The efforts of the Ekiti State government and DINABI Nigeria are part of a broader movement towards ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their physical abilities, can live with dignity and access all public facilities and services. This commitment to inclusion is expected to inspire similar initiatives across other states in Nigeria, promoting a nationwide culture of accessibility and equality.
As Ekiti State moves towards full compliance with its disability law by the end of 2025, the collaboration between government agencies, advocacy groups, and the public will be critical in achieving a truly inclusive environment for all. DINABI Nigeria’s proactive stance and the government’s receptive attitude mark a significant step forward in the journey towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
