Lafarge Africa Plc has empowered 100 persons with disabilities in Lagos through its Disability to Ability (D2A) Programme, reaffirming its commitment to inclusion and economic empowerment.
In Nigeria, more than 25 million people are estimated to be living with disabilities, many of whom continue to face barriers to education, employment, and financial independence. To address these challenges, Lafarge Africa launched the initiative aimed at equipping beneficiaries with practical vocational and entrepreneurial skills.
The programme, themed “Ability Reimagined,” was implemented in collaboration with Tunde Onakoya, the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, and the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs.
Through the initiative, participants received hands-on training in laptop and phone repairs, make-up and gele styling, wig and braid making, as well as shoe and bag production. The training was designed to help beneficiaries gain employable and entrepreneurial skills that would enable them to become financially independent.
The graduation ceremony, held at The Sheba Centre in Maryland, Lagos, marked the successful completion of training for participants drawn from hubs in Ikeja and Ikorodu. Beneficiaries celebrated their achievements by showcasing their newly acquired skills, tools, and certificates.
Speaking at the event, Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, alongside Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, Feyisayo Alayande, commended the collaborative effort behind the programme and encouraged beneficiaries to use their skills to build sustainable futures and inspire others.
One of the beneficiaries, Funmilayo Idowu, who trained in laptop and phone repairs, expressed appreciation to the organisers for the opportunity.
“I thank Lafarge, LSETF and LASODA for this opportunity to be independent and face the future with confidence,” she said.
Lafarge Africa noted that the D2A Programme reflects its broader commitment to inclusive growth and social impact, stressing that empowering persons with disabilities with opportunities and resources can unlock potential and transform lives.
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