BADAGRY, Lagos — Stakeholders have called on persons with disabilities (PwDs) to embrace self-leadership and purposeful living as a pathway to success and community impact.
The call came during a one-day leadership training organised by the Centre for Media Advocacy for the Disabled (CMAD) in partnership with Olorunda Local Council Development Area and the Association of Persons with Disabilities, Badagry.
The training forms Batch 1 of a two-phase leadership skills programme designed to build a stronger network of grassroots leaders within the disability community. It was themed “Building Strong Local Leaders for Community Development.”
Dr Mohammed Olalekan of Lagos State University, one of the facilitators, urged participants to take control of their lives and avoid leaving their future to chance.
Speaking on “Self-Leadership and Personal Effectiveness among People with Disabilities,” he encouraged them to build confidence, remain accountable, and see themselves as change agents within their communities.
“You have the power to shape your future. Be disciplined, be responsible, and be ready to uplift others,” he said.
Also speaking, Mrs Victoria Adesanya highlighted the importance of ethical leadership, noting that strong societies are built on integrity and sound decision-making.
In his goodwill message, Mr Akinyele Cornelius, representing the council chairman, Mr Kumayon Ajose, encouraged participants to maximise the opportunity and assured them of the council’s continued support.
Earlier, the Executive Director of CMAD, Mr Sejoro Ekundayo, described the training as a deliberate effort to nurture grassroots leadership among persons with disabilities.
“Persons with disabilities are not just participants in development; they are leaders and drivers of change. This training is designed to equip them with practical skills to lead, advocate, and contribute meaningfully to society,” he said.
Ekundayo also commended the collaboration with Olorunda LCDA and disability groups in Badagry, stressing that partnerships remain critical to advancing inclusion and sustainable community development.
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