The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a more inclusive, accessible, and supportive society as officials, educators, students, and stakeholders gathered to commemorate the 18th Edition of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), on Wednesday, 3rd December, at Yaba College of Technology Sports Ground in Lagos.
The event, themed “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress,” highlighted the state’s ongoing investments in inclusive education and showcased the talents and resilience of students with disabilities across Lagos.
Delivering the goodwill message of the Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tertiary Education, Mr. Adeniran Kasali, applauded the state’s dedication to empowering persons with disabilities. He noted that Lagos State now has more than 50 inclusive schools and several special schools, providing an enabling environment for learners with disabilities to develop their talents.
Kasali stressed that disability is part of human diversity, not a defect or limitation, adding that inclusion must be embraced across all sectors—education, transportation, healthcare, employment, and beyond. He also commended teachers for their commitment to mainstreaming inclusion, describing their work as vital to building a fair and equitable society.
Also speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board, Mrs. Ronke Azeez, expressed her joy at the confidence and brilliance shown by the students during their performances. She recalled a placard held by one of the students that read, “Even with our disability, we can do it. We are great,” saying the words perfectly captured the spirit of the celebration. She thanked the teachers, organisers, and the Lagos State Government for sustaining its inclusive agenda.
In her goodwill message, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Abosede Williams, Director of the Child Guidance, School Counseling and Special Education Department at the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, described the celebration as a gathering that reaffirms the state’s commitment to welcoming, including, and uplifting children with disabilities.
She noted that learners from various inclusive primary and secondary schools across the state participated in the event with remarkable enthusiasm. She highlighted how the joyful performances of learners, including those using wheelchairs and visually-impaired children, demonstrated courage and potential that inspire others.
Mrs. Williams also used the opportunity to encourage parents to support their children instead of hiding them or limiting their opportunities. “Let them come out, express themselves, and demonstrate their potential. They are as capable as any other child,” she said, urging families to guide their children toward meaningful futures rather than resort to harmful practices like begging.
Representing the Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Mrs. Victoria Mopelola Peregrino, Mrs. Abidemi Alobe commended the organisers and praised special educators for their tireless commitment. She emphasized that with proper support, every child has the ability to succeed and contribute meaningfully to society. She described the Governor as a “talk-and-do” leader whose THEMES Plus agenda continues to advance inclusion statewide.
The celebration featured inspiring presentations, music, dance, and artistic displays from students across special and inclusive schools. Stakeholders collectively reaffirmed their commitment to removing barriers, promoting accessibility, and championing the rights and talents of persons with disabilities.
The event concluded with renewed calls for collective action to strengthen disability inclusion and ensure that Lagos remains a state where no learner is left behind.
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