The Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlede, has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to advancing inclusive employment for persons with disabilities (PWDs), describing inclusion not only as a fundamental right but also as a catalyst for sustainable socio-economic development.
Speaking at the Disability Empowerment and Employability Project (DEEP) Conference held at NECA House, Lagos, Ogunlede commended The IREDE Foundation for its decade-long dedication to promoting the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.
He emphasized that the push for inclusive employment must move beyond policies and translate into real, actionable steps. In this regard, he lauded the launch of the new Recruitment Toolkit for PWDs, noting that it will serve as a practical guide for employers in both the public and private sectors to embrace inclusive hiring practices.
Encouraging participants to take ownership of the discussions and outcomes of the conference, Ogunlede urged stakeholders to return to their respective ministries, organisations, and communities with renewed resolve to create more employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Also speaking at the event, the General Manager of the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, highlighted the state government’s ongoing efforts to empower PWDs through targeted programs and inclusive policies.
She stressed the importance of ensuring that persons with disabilities, especially those at the grassroots, are given platforms to thrive and contribute meaningfully at all levels of society. Oyetunde-Lawal also called attention to the unique role of caregivers, stating that while caregivers must be supported in their duties, PWDs themselves require both empowerment and access to employment opportunities.
Join Inclusive News Network WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You. Click Here