In what is being hailed as a historic moment for the disability community in Osun State, the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) has extended heartfelt appreciation to the state’s governor, His Excellency Asiwaju Senator Dr. Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, for signing the long-awaited Disability Bills into law. This monumental action, which comes after two decades of advocacy, marks a significant milestone in the journey toward full recognition of the rights and welfare of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the state.
In an official statement, Comrade Mudasiru Adams J, Zonal Coordinator for JONAPWD Iwo Zone, expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the association. The statement highlighted the signing of these bills as a major victory, one that will have far-reaching impacts on the lives of individuals with disabilities across Osun State.
“A Milestone 20 Years in the Making”
For over 20 years, the disability community in Osun State has been actively advocating for legal frameworks that would safeguard their rights and ensure their full integration into society. The signing of the Disability Bills into law by Governor Adeleke is seen as the culmination of these efforts, bringing about a sense of relief and celebration among PWDs and their allies.
“This marks a significant milestone for our community, one that has been long awaited and ardently pursued over the past two decades,” Adams noted in the statement. “Your commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities in Osun State is truly commendable.”
The Disability Bills, now officially law, aim to eliminate discrimination against PWDs, promote their full participation in society, and ensure that they have access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and employment. The laws will also mandate the creation of accessible infrastructure across the state, removing physical barriers that have long hindered PWDs from accessing public spaces and facilities.
Governor Adeleke’s Leadership Praised
The leadership of Governor Adeleke has been widely recognized as instrumental in making this dream a reality. Comrade Adams, speaking on behalf of JONAPWD, lauded the governor’s unwavering support for the disability community, calling his decision to sign the bills into law a “testament to your vision for a more equitable Osun State, where every citizen, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy their rights and contribute meaningfully to society.”
Governor Adeleke’s administration has been characterized by a focus on inclusivity and social justice, with the signing of the Disability Bills seen as further evidence of this commitment. The bills not only provide legal backing for the protection of the rights of PWDs but also create a framework for the provision of much-needed support systems that will allow them to thrive in all aspects of life.
Adams acknowledged that the passage of these laws would have a “transformative impact” on the disability community in Osun State, fostering greater inclusivity and ensuring that PWDs can access opportunities to lead fulfilling lives. “This historic achievement will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities across the state, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment,” he said.
Osun State Paving the Way for Disability Rights
The new laws signed by Governor Adeleke are part of a broader movement across Nigeria aimed at enhancing the rights of PWDs. Osun State is now at the forefront of this movement, having joined other states that have enacted similar legislation aimed at addressing the challenges faced by PWDs in their daily lives.
Key provisions of the newly signed laws include:
- Prohibition of discrimination against PWDs in employment, education, and access to public services.
- Mandating accessibility standards for public buildings, transportation, and other infrastructure to ensure PWDs can move freely and access essential services.
- Promotion of inclusive education, ensuring that PWDs have equal opportunities to attend school and receive quality education.
- Strengthening healthcare access, particularly for individuals with disabilities, by ensuring healthcare facilities are equipped to cater to their needs.
The Disability Bills also establish a commission that will be responsible for monitoring the implementation of the laws and ensuring that the rights of PWDs are upheld across the state. This commission will work in collaboration with local and international organizations to ensure that the laws are fully enforced and that PWDs receive the support they need.
A Step Forward for Equality and Justice
The signing of the Disability Bills into law is being viewed as a bold step forward in the fight for equality and justice in Osun State. Governor Adeleke’s actions have sent a clear message that his administration is committed to creating a society where everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, has an equal chance to succeed.
The governor’s support for PWDs is also seen as an example of responsive governance, where leaders listen to the concerns of marginalized communities and take decisive action to address them. “We recognize that this accomplishment is the result of your leadership and your administration’s commitment to justice and equality,” Adams said, praising the governor’s dedication to the cause.
For many PWDs, this is not just a legal victory, but a validation of their humanity and dignity. The laws affirm their right to participate fully in society, free from the barriers—both physical and societal—that have long held them back.
Looking Ahead: Continued Collaboration for Disability Rights
While the signing of the Disability Bills is a major achievement, JONAPWD Osun State has made it clear that the work is far from over. The association expressed its readiness to continue collaborating with Governor Adeleke’s administration to ensure the full implementation of the new laws and to further enhance the quality of life for PWDs in the state.
“Once again, thank you for your unwavering support and for championing this cause,” the statement read. “We look forward to continuing our collaboration with your administration to further enhance the quality of life for persons with disabilities in our state.”
The disability community in Osun State is now looking toward the future with optimism, as they anticipate the positive changes that these laws will bring. With strong leadership from Governor Adeleke and ongoing advocacy from JONAPWD, there is hope that the rights and welfare of PWDs will continue to improve, making Osun State a model for other regions in Nigeria.
As the state moves forward, the commitment to inclusivity and justice will remain at the forefront of its development agenda, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Conclusion
The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) Osun State has expressed profound appreciation for Governor Ademola Adeleke’s signing of the long-anticipated Disability Bills into law. This landmark legislation represents a significant step toward achieving justice, equality, and inclusivity for persons with disabilities in Osun State. The governor’s leadership has set the stage for lasting change, and with continued collaboration, the future looks brighter for the disability community in Osun.
