Lagos State Celebrates Ability in Disability

The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, recently held a vibrant celebration for students with disabilities, marking the 2025 International Day for Persons with Disabilities. The event, held at the Yaba College of Technology Sports Ground, embraced the theme 'Fostering Disability Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress' and brought together over 50 Inclusive schools. This gathering was a powerful affirmation of the state's dedication to creating a truly inclusive society where the potential of every child is recognized and nurtured, regardless of their challenges.

​​In his keynote address, the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, stressed that the commemoration reinforced the state's unwavering commitment to the principle that "no child is left behind." Represented by Mr. Adeniran Kasali, the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Tertiary Education, Mr. Agoro passionately described the theme as a mandate, emphasizing that genuine social progress hinges on the full and equal participation of persons with disabilities. He underlined the profound philosophy, "There is an ability in every disability," and affirmed that disability is neither a stigma nor a barrier to contribution.

​The Head of Service further elaborated that true social inclusion requires an environment built on empathy, dignity, and fairness, necessitating that institutions like classrooms, workplaces, and cities prioritize accessibility. He emphasized that inclusion serves to remove the physical and attitudinal barriers that limit the dignity and contributions of persons with disabilities. Mr. Agoro strongly urged leaders across all sectors to actively dismantle these limiting barriers and ensure that all policies especially in education, housing, and healthcare remain inherently inclusive and accommodating

​Echoing the Head of Service’s sentiments, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Williams, Director of Child Guidance, School Counselling, and Special Education, stated that the event’s core aim was to celebrate the children’s inherent abilities. She reinforced the message: "We celebrate the ability in every child’s disability," recognizing them as invaluable members of society. Mrs. Williams highlighted that equal opportunities are crucial for strengthening inclusion and warned that stigmatization denies potential, whereas inclusion actively empowers individuals to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the community.

Mrs. Williams made a direct appeal to parents, encouraging them to bring forward their children with disabilities, asserting that every child possesses potential and should not be stigmatized or hidden from society. The commitment of the Lagos State Government to an inclusive system was reiterated, confirming that every child will be supported regardless of the challenges they face. Additionally, Mrs. Victoria Mopelola Peregrino, Chairman of the Lagos State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), commended the dedication of teachers of children with special needs, urging them to continue their vital work in fostering inclusion and development.