LASODA SUPPORTS CIVIL SERVANTS WITH DISABILITIES WITH WORK TOOLS
The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has presented work tools and assistive devices to about 50 civil servants with disabilities in the state. Cheques of N1,100,000:00 (One Million, One Hundred Thousand Naira) each were also handed to 11 individuals to procure prosthetics, aimed at enhancing their independence and productivity.
Speaking during the official presentation of the items, which took place at the STO Resource Centre, Ikeja, on Monday, the General Manager of LASODA, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, emphasised that the initiative was designed to empower, promote inclusion, and increase accessibility for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), particularly those employed by the State Government.
She noted that, in recent years, the Agency had received numerous requests from state civil servants with disabilities seeking work tools to help them perform their duties. This presentation is a step toward fulfilling that vision for PWDs in the state civil service.
In her words, "Today, we are presenting: 23 laptops, 9 laptops with speech-assisted software (Freedom Scientific Version 2024) for our visually impaired colleagues, as well as calipers and motorized wheelchairs. We also have some representatives here on behalf of children in their facilities who will receive assistive devices and tools."
She added, "These work tools are more than just equipment; they are enablers of efficiency, confidence, and dignity. With these tools, our colleagues with disabilities will not only perform their tasks with greater ease but will also contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of Lagos State without barriers."
Mrs. Oyetunde-Lawal further highlighted that Lagos State remains one of the largest employers of PWDs in the country. She assured that LASODA would continue to explore ways to assist PWDs within the civil service. She also urged the various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to empower their staff with disabilities to achieve their full potential.
She concluded by affirming the state's commitment to promoting equal opportunities and advocating for a more inclusive society where no one is left behind, regardless of their status. She encouraged the beneficiaries to use the tools responsibly, allowing them to serve as instruments of productivity, excellence, and self-reliance.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Oke-Osanyintolu, stated that the initiative aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu's social inclusion agenda, which ensures the welfare of individuals with special needs.
According to her, "This administration, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is working tirelessly to ensure that individuals with disabilities are supported in all aspects of life. LASODA has continued to address your needs, including the provision of work tools for your comfort. The work tools and assistive devices you're receiving today will serve as a model for future initiatives, reflecting in the improved service delivery and productivity for the people of Lagos."
She also noted that improving access to public infrastructure for PWDs has been a key focus of the state government, beginning with civil servants. She expressed her full support for individuals and groups working to care for children with special needs in the state.
The beneficiaries expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu and LASODA for the opportunity provided by the work tools, stating that the support will significantly improve their ability to contribute positively at their workplaces.
More photos below.
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