Lagos, Nigeria – Advocates for the rights of persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDDs) have called on the Lagos State Government to officially adopt and implement a newly validated draft policy dedicated to the welfare and inclusion of individuals with IDDs.
The appeal was made at the conclusion of a three-day policy validation workshop held in Lagos, convened to refine the draft ahead of its formal presentation to state authorities.
Mrs. Jokotola Omotola, National President of the Association of Persons with IDDs and coordinator of the workshop, emphasized that the policy is a vital step toward improving the quality of life for individuals with IDDs and their families.
“This policy will serve as a framework for both government and the public on how best to support, include, and care for persons with IDDs,” she said. “They remain one of the most marginalized groups in our society, particularly in developing countries. This policy is a beacon of hope.”
Mrs. Omotola also urged parents to break the culture of silence and stigma by no longer hiding children with IDDs, encouraging them instead to become active in advocacy and inclusion efforts.
“Once Lagos adopts this policy, our goal is to advocate for its adoption across other states in Nigeria,” she added.
Dr. Adeleke Phillip, a Special Education lecturer at the University of Calabar, noted the far-reaching impact of IDDs on families.
“IDDs often affect entire households, sometimes with multiple family members living with the condition. This policy aims to ensure they receive the support they need—similar to what is obtainable in developed nations,” he stated.
Mr. Abolerin Salami, Chairman of the Lagos Chapter of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), lauded the draft as groundbreaking.
“While there are general disability policies, this is the first of its kind specifically focused on the IDD community. It acknowledges the unique challenges and needs of this group, which makes it a significant milestone,” he remarked.
Speaking on behalf of the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), Mr. Babatunde Safiu, Head of Legal Services, commended the initiative.
“Among the ten recognized disability clusters in Lagos State, this is the first to develop such a comprehensive and targeted policy. It’s a commendable achievement,” he said.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) also pledged support. Represented by spokesperson Mr. Seun Abolerin, on behalf of the Lagos State Commandant, Mr. Keshiro, he affirmed the Corps’ commitment to protecting persons with IDDs.
“In line with the directives of our Commandant-General, Dr. Ahmed Audi, the NSCDC remains dedicated to safeguarding vulnerable populations, including those with IDDs,” he said.
The workshop drew more than 30 participants, including representatives from government ministries, civil society organizations, NGOs, and advocacy groups, all united in their call for immediate policy action to promote inclusion and protection for persons with IDDs.
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