The Association of Persons with Disabilities (APWD), Badagry Chapter, has presented an award to the Badagry Local Government through its Chairman, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, in recognition of the Council’s commitment to disability inclusion.
Speaking during the meeting, the Chairman of APWD, Comrade Sejoro Ekundayo, expressed the Association’s sincere gratitude to the Local Government for consistently representing, including, and ensuring that persons with disabilities (PWDs) are not left behind.
He noted that since Hon. Hunpe assumed office, noticeable positive changes have taken place, for which the Association is deeply appreciative. According to him, the award was initially scheduled to be presented in 2024 but was delayed due to certain circumstances.
However, Comrade Ekundayo also raised concerns about some challenges faced by PWDs within the Local Government Secretariat. He cited instances where persons with disabilities were neglected during a food market organised by the Local Government, noting that several members had complained about such neglect.
He further revealed that during the Chairman’s 100-day celebration, some PWDs were asked to wait for their turn despite their disabilities. He appealed to Hon. Hunpe to encourage his staff to always prioritise persons with disabilities in all programmes and activities.
He concluded by praying for God’s blessings, wisdom, success, and greater heights for Hon. Hunpe, while assuring him that persons with disabilities would always stand by him in whatever position he may attain in the future.
In his response, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe expressed appreciation for the award and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to disability inclusion. He assured the Association that persons with disabilities would receive special attention in all Local Government programmes and activities.
The Chairman further disclosed that very soon, appointments would be given to persons with disabilities, explaining that the Local Government is currently awaiting the release of the list of supervisory councillors.
He added that plans are underway to establish an office dedicated to persons with disabilities within the Local Government Secretariat. Hon. Hunpe also announced that a Special Adviser on Disability Affairs would be appointed to serve as a direct link between the government and the disability community.
He emphasised that persons with disabilities are an integral part of the society and assured the Association that their concerns would always be addressed. The Chairman also thanked members of APWD for their active participation in the Local Government’s 100-day anniversary programmes.
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