In a significant move to promote inclusivity and address the challenges faced by Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), a delegation under the aegis of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disability (JONAPWD) Kwara State Chapter and Voice of Disability Initiative (VDI) has taken their advocacy to community and religious leaders. This groundbreaking initiative saw the delegation pay a courtesy visit to the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, at his palace in Ilorin, Kwara State.
The visit, described as both symbolic and strategic, aimed to foster dialogue, strengthen partnerships, and solicit the support of traditional leaders in advancing the rights and inclusion of Persons with Disabilities across the state.
Leading the delegation, the Chairman of JONAPWD Kwara State Chapter, Comrade Yusuf Bashir, addressed the Emir’s representatives and highlighted the struggles faced by PWDs, emphasizing the urgent need for inclusivity and accessibility in all facets of society. According to Bashir, the meeting represents a critical step in bridging the gap between advocacy efforts and the support of influential leaders in championing the rights of PWDs.
“We are here today to discuss issues affecting Persons with Disabilities in Kwara State and to seek your support in promoting inclusivity and accessibility. Your role as a revered leader in this community is crucial, and we are confident that your support will help drive the needed change,” Bashir stated.
He went further to commend the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq for appointing individuals with disabilities into key positions in the state government. Bashir described the governor’s actions as a clear indication of his commitment to inclusivity and recognition of the abilities and contributions of Persons with Disabilities.
“The appointment of Persons with Disabilities into the administration has given us a sense of relevance in society. We are grateful, but more needs to be done to ensure full integration and access to opportunities,” Bashir added.
In her remarks, Barrister Catherine Edeh, the Executive Director of Voice of Disability Initiative (VDI), called for the establishment of a Disability Commission in the state, which, according to her, would serve as a strong institution to oversee the rights and welfare of PWDs. She stressed that such a commission would ensure long-term structural support and care for Persons with Disabilities, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to society without barriers.
“A Disability Commission will be an added assurance of care for Persons with Disabilities. It will also ensure that policies, programs, and laws protecting our rights are fully implemented and monitored,” Barrister Edeh asserted.
Adding his voice to the advocacy, Dr. Oyelakin Ogungbade, the focal person for the Voice of Disability, underscored the importance of inclusive education and employment opportunities for PWDs. He noted that systemic barriers continue to prevent many Persons with Disabilities from accessing quality education and securing gainful employment, which further exacerbates poverty and marginalization within the community.
“We cannot talk about development without ensuring inclusive education for children with disabilities and creating equal employment opportunities for adults with disabilities. Beyond that, it is crucial to promote positive attitudes and break the societal stereotypes that continue to hinder our progress,” Dr. Ogungbade said.
Responding on behalf of the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, the Balogun Alanamu of Ilorin, Dr. Uthman Atolagbe-Jos, expressed the Emirate’s unwavering commitment to supporting the cause of Persons with Disabilities. He acknowledged the critical role of community leaders in driving awareness and fostering change, promising to use their influence to create more inclusive and accessible environments within the Emirate.
“On behalf of His Royal Highness, we commend your dedication and resilience in fighting for the rights of Persons with Disabilities. Be assured that we will continue to lend our voice and influence to this cause. We will work towards fostering inclusive systems within our institutions and encouraging communities to embrace accessibility and equality,” Dr. Atolagbe-Jos affirmed.
The Emir’s pledge marks a promising milestone in the ongoing efforts to amplify the voices of Persons with Disabilities and address systemic inequalities in the state. For the delegation, the meeting with such an influential figure is seen as a breakthrough that could inspire more community and religious leaders to join the cause.
The visit also highlights the power of advocacy when stakeholders, including traditional rulers, policymakers, and disability rights organizations, come together to chart a course for inclusivity and equality.
As advocacy for the rights of Persons with Disabilities continues to gain momentum in Kwara State, the delegation’s visit to the Emir of Ilorin is a testament to the importance of dialogue, collaboration, and leadership in achieving meaningful change. For many, it is a call to action for governments, institutions, and communities to recognize the dignity and potential of Persons with Disabilities and to dismantle the barriers that hinder their full participation in society.
With promises made and conversations sparked, the hope remains that this step will pave the way for policies and initiatives that guarantee a more inclusive, accessible, and equitable future for all.
