The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has again reiterated its call for inclusivity and empathy towards persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Engr. Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, and her team on Friday, April 19, 2024, the General Manager of LASODA, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, emphasized the need for societal change.
Mrs. Oyetunde-Lawal underscored the importance of recognizing and accommodating the diverse needs of PWDs, urging a shift beyond policy-making towards fostering a culture of empathy.
The General Manager further spoke on the diversity within the disability community, where needs vary across different categories. According to her, disability conditions can range from mild to severe, including visual, hearing, physical, neurological, and intellectual issues, adding that recognizing the humanity in each individual is crucial for creating a truly inclusive environment.
Engr. Akinajo, while expressing LAMATA’s commitment to collaboration, welcomed LASODA’s holistic perspective on disability issues, assuring that together, they can both explore avenues that will enhance service delivery and promote inclusivity within Lagos State.
She said that the purpose of the visit was to facilitate a better relationship between both agencies. “We are here to deliberate on ways to ensure better collaboration with LASODA, with the aim of creating an all-encompassing transportation system in Lagos State.
“Your holistic view of disability groups will undoubtedly assist us in our quest for inclusivity. LAMATA welcomes the opportunity to collaborate with LASODA to achieve this goal,” Engr. Akinajo stated.