On September 12, 2024, Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) organized a one-day grassroot awareness on free civic space for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Alimosho Local Government. The programme was organised to raise public awareness about civic engagement among PWDs in Alimosho, while engaging community leaders to expand the civic space for civic actors with disabilities.
Setting the tone, participants were welcomed by Mrs Florence Austin – the Admin/Finance Manager, who provided a background on the shrinking civic space and emphasized the importance of PWDs taking informed action. Community leaders followed with goodwill messages in support of the discussion.
The first presentation, Understanding Disability Rights and Models, was facilitated by Project Officer Aniramu Tosin, who explained the concept of disability, various schools of thought, and legal frameworks protecting PWDs. She also discussed current challenges and offered practical recommendations to enhance the protection of persons with disabilities.
In the second session, Precious Osinaku presented “Empowering Inclusion: Understanding Civic Engagement and Civic Space for Persons with Disabilities” providing valuable insights on how PWDs can effectively engage the government in demanding accountability for their rights. She also explained the concept of civic space and the challenges faced by civic actors, offering guidance on how PWDs can conduct impactful and peaceful protests.
Participants then applied these lessons during the group work, where they developed strategies for driving meaningful and result-oriented civic engagement to address disability gaps in Alimosho.
Testimony Omole, the Project Officer for Defending Civic Space, emphasized the importance of protecting civic spaces. In closing, Mrs. Anyaele appreciated the participants and encouraged them to apply the lessons learned in their communities and throughout Alimosho Local Government.