INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES: LAGOS CELEBRATES ABILITY IN DISABILITY
Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, celebrated persons with disabilities among students, recognising their abilities, at an event held recently at the Yaba College of Technology Sports Ground.
The celebration and honour were in commemoration of the 2025 International Day for Persons with disabilities with the theme: ‘Fostering Disability Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress'.
At the event, which had over 50 Inclusive schools in attendance, students and schools that excelled in academics and co-curricular activities were honoured.
In his keynote address, the Head of Service, Lagos State, Mr Bode Agoro, noted that the celebration reinforced Lagos State’s commitment to an inclusive society where no child is left behind.
Describing the theme as a mandate, the Head of Service maintained that social progress relied on full participation of persons with disabilities as equal members of the society, adding that disability was neither a stigma nor a barrier. “There is an ability in every disability", he added.
Mr Agoro, who was represented by Mr Adeniran Kasali, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tertiary Education, affirmed that social inclusion is built on an environment rooted in empathy, dignity and fairness, with classrooms, workplaces and cities prioritising accessibility. “Inclusion enables persons with disabilities to be free from barriers limiting dignity and contribution” he enthused.
The HOS urged leaders to dismantle barriers limiting persons with disabilities and ensure that policies in education, housing and healthcare remain inclusive.
Earlier, Mrs Oluwatoyin Williams, the Director of Child Guidance, School Counselling and Special Education, Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, stated that the event was aimed at celebrating children’s abilities. “We celebrate the ability in every child’s disability, recognising them as valued members of society.”
The Director noted that equal opportunities would strengthen inclusion across communities. “Stigmatisation denies them opportunities, but inclusion empowers them to thrive and contribute meaningfully,” she added.
Mrs Williams urged parents to bring out their children with disabilities, saying that every child had potential and should not be stigmatised or hidden. She reiterated that the Lagos State Government remains committed to an inclusive system where no child is left behind, regardless of challenges.
Mrs Victoria Mopelola Peregrino, Chairman of Lagos State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), commended teachers of children with special needs, urging them to remain committed to fostering inclusion and development.
Represented at the event by Director, Teachers Education and Capacity Development of TESCOM, Mrs ABidemi Aloba, the Chairman commended the teachers’ outstanding dedication to the children, urging them to keep nurturing, supporting and inspiring these children.
“Your commitment is evident, transforming lives and building a truly inclusive and compassionate society,” she said.
More photos below.
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