The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has taken another bold step toward inclusive healthcare through a sensitization programme on family planning for persons with disabilities. Themed “Ensuring Equitable Family Planning Access for People with Disabilities in Lagos State,” the event was held on Tuesday at the Ikeja Local Government Secretariat and drew participants from government agencies, disability organizations, and care homes.
Speaking on behalf of LASODA’s General Manager, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, the Director of the Medical Rehabilitation, Mobility Aids and Appliances Department, Mrs. Olukanni-Abokhai E.O, described the programme as a milestone in the state’s journey toward inclusive health and social development. She emphasized that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration remains steadfast in ensuring that no one — including persons with disabilities — is excluded from essential health services such as family planning.
“The Lagos State Government is intentional about inclusion,” Mrs. Olukanni-Abokhai affirmed. “Through LASODA, we are creating awareness and empowering persons with disabilities to make informed, responsible, and healthy decisions about their reproductive lives.”
The event featured enriching lectures and discussions by health and social experts. Nurse Adekunle Ruth educated participants on the fundamentals and benefits of family planning, highlighting its vital role in improving maternal and child health. Similarly, Ms. Yetunde Odekunle of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) explored how family planning relates to sexual health and domestic harmony, calling for mutual respect and shared responsibility in family life.
Participants expressed gratitude for the State Government’s consistent inclusion efforts. Answering questions from Inclusive News Network (INN) crew, Mrs. Clementina Olufunmilayo Kolapo from the SAFREL Speech and Language Development Centre commended LASODA’s initiative, saying, “Since I relocated to Lagos, I’ve seen significant progress in disability-focused interventions. It’s inspiring to see persons with disabilities being involved in important conversations like this.”
She also encouraged parents to adopt family planning methods and avoid overextending their capacity to care for their children.
With this initiative, LASODA continues to advance equitable access to healthcare and social development for persons with disabilities, reinforcing Lagos State’s reputation as a model of inclusion and progressive governance.
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