Hon. Ayuba Gufwan Commends Lagos State’s Commitment to Persons with Disabilities
Lagos, Nigeria – In a remarkable show of commitment to disability inclusion and economic empowerment, the Lagos State Government has been lauded for its progressive efforts in fostering a society where Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) can thrive. The commendation came from Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), who described Lagos as a model for other states to follow in ensuring that disability is not a barrier to success.
Hon. Gufwan made this statement during the closing ceremony of the Removing Barriers initiative, an entrepreneurial training program designed to equip PWDs with essential skills for financial independence. The initiative, championed by the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment in collaboration with the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to breaking economic and social barriers for PWDs.
A Bold Step Toward Economic Inclusion
Addressing the beneficiaries, Hon. Gufwan reiterated that true inclusion is not about handouts but about creating opportunities where PWDs can compete on equal footing.
“Empowering Persons with Disabilities is not an act of charity but a deliberate strategy to invest in national development. The notion of ‘disability’ should never be seen as an inability, and this initiative is a testament to that. By equipping PWDs with the right skills and resources, we are not only fostering self-reliance but also unlocking their immense potential to contribute meaningfully to the economy and society at large.”
The Removing Barriers initiative has been widely praised for not only providing training but also ensuring that participants receive financial support to establish their businesses. As part of the closing ceremony, the Director of Entrepreneurship Development, Mrs. Taiwo Abiose, presented certificates to the beneficiaries and announced the provision of start-up loans—an essential step in ensuring the sustainability of their businesses.
Hon. Gufwan commended Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration for setting a high standard in disability inclusion. He highlighted Lagos as the first state in Nigeria to enact a comprehensive Disability Law, a move that has paved the way for policies and programs that promote accessibility, employment opportunities, and equal rights for PWDs.
Leadership in Disability Rights and Economic Advancement
Also speaking at the event, the General Manager of LASODA, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde Lawal, reiterated the agency’s dedication to fostering an inclusive Lagos where PWDs have unhindered access to opportunities.
“Lagos State is leading by example. We believe that disability inclusion must go beyond policy statements—it must be reflected in tangible actions that empower PWDs economically and socially. This training is a step in that direction.”
Similarly, the Honourable Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, assured beneficiaries of the Lagos State Government’s sustained investment in their growth, stressing that entrepreneurship remains a critical pathway to self-reliance.
“Economic empowerment is a game changer for PWDs. By providing the necessary training, funding, and mentorship, we are positioning them to be business leaders and contributors to the state’s economic prosperity,” he said.
Strengthening Collaboration for a More Inclusive Future
Beyond the training program, Hon. Gufwan seized the opportunity to visit the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs, where he engaged with key stakeholders on advancing disability inclusion across Nigeria. The discussions centered on strengthening intergovernmental collaboration, improving access to assistive technologies, and implementing policies that guarantee full participation of PWDs in all aspects of society.
During the meeting, Hon. Gufwan emphasized that while progress has been made, there is still work to be done in ensuring that all states implement disability-friendly policies similar to those championed by Lagos. He called on policymakers, corporate organizations, and civil society to actively support disability rights and inclusion, stating that Nigeria has the potential to become a leader in Africa for disability empowerment.
“With the right policies and consistent advocacy, Nigeria can become a model of disability inclusion in Africa. We must ensure that PWDs are not just accommodated but are given the tools and opportunities to excel in every sphere of life,” he asserted.
A Call for Nationwide Replication
The success of the Removing Barriers initiative has reignited calls for other states to replicate Lagos’ disability empowerment model. Advocacy groups and stakeholders within the disability community are urging state governments to prioritize programs that promote equal access to education, healthcare, employment, and financial services for PWDs.
As Lagos continues to champion disability inclusion, the onus now lies on the rest of the country to follow suit. The Removing Barriers initiative has demonstrated that when governments commit to inclusion, PWDs can overcome societal limitations and contribute meaningfully to national development.
For the beneficiaries of this transformative program, the journey toward financial independence has only just begun. With their newly acquired skills and financial backing, they are set to redefine the narrative around disability and prove that given the right opportunities, there is no limit to what they can achieve.
The Future of Disability Empowerment in Nigeria
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities and LASODA have reaffirmed their commitment to championing the rights and dignity of PWDs across Nigeria. Moving forward, the focus will be on sustaining and expanding initiatives that drive economic empowerment, social inclusion, and legislative reforms.
As Hon. Gufwan and his team continue their advocacy, the message remains clear: Disability should never be a limitation, and inclusion is the responsibility of all.
With Lagos setting the pace, the future looks promising for PWDs in Nigeria—one where barriers are not just removed but replaced with bridges to opportunity, dignity, and success.
