The Deaf Supporters Development Initiative (DSDI) has affirmed its support for Nigeria’s leadership under President Bola Tinubu, while calling for greater inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in government policies.
DSDI President, Mr. Afolabi Dahunsi, made the call during a public lecture on Democracy, Disability, and Good Governance in Lagos on Thursday, commemorating the 2025 International Day for PWDs.
The event, organized by DSDI, was themed: “The Renewed Hope Agenda: A Life-Saving Intervention for the Deaf and Persons with Disabilities.”
Dahunsi noted that Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda promised to include PWDs in governance, stressing the need to actualize this commitment. He also highlighted that despite the Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018, discrimination persists, leaving many PWDs unemployed and economically marginalized.
“We want the government to help dismantle this discrimination. Economic hardships affect most of our people, and short-term palliatives hardly solve the problem of unemployment in our community,” he said.
He further urged urgent action against insecurity, noting that deaf people are especially vulnerable to crimes due to communication barriers.
Speaking on the sidelines, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, represented by Mr. Yusuf Olukolu, said societal attitudes and systemic barriers often worsen the challenges faced by PWDs. He stressed the need for inclusion in decision-making, community programmes, and public discussions.
Omotoso highlighted the state’s initiatives, including the creation of the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) and infrastructure upgrades such as accessible BRT terminals, public parks, and government complexes.
“Inclusion means ensuring every individual can thrive, and the dignity and rights of PWDs are respected,” he said.
