The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has empowered 78 entrepreneurs with disabilities by providing them with the specific work tools and funds they requested to enhance their businesses.
Speaking at the Financing and Upskilling programme for Entrepreneurs with Disabilities, held on Monday at the STO Resource Centre in Alausa, Ikeja, with the theme: “Empowering Persons With Disabilities for Economic Independence and Self-sufficiency,” the General Manager of LASODA, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, stated that the empowerment programme is a step toward ensuring that PWDs are not just passive recipients of assistance but active contributors to the economic growth of Lagos State.
Mrs. Oyetunde-Lawal explained that the state government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and its THEMES Plus Agenda, is committed to policies that promote inclusivity, accessibility, and equal rights for all.
“Today’s project reflects the Lagos State government’s commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities are not left behind. We have provided funds to refinance various businesses owned by PWDs, as well as businesses run by parents of children with disabilities whose businesses have been affected by several factors.
“The state government has allocated different sums for various types of businesses to ensure that the economic circumstances of these families are significantly improved, which, in turn, reduces the burden on the state government.
“This initiative goes beyond financial support. It is about capacity building, entrepreneurship development, and business support to equip PWDs with the tools and resources needed to run sustainable enterprises. Our focus remains on creating opportunities for job creation, innovation, and meaningful contributions to the economy,” she said.
The General Manager acknowledged the creativity and entrepreneurial potential of people with special needs, urging stakeholders to support the government in breaking down barriers, eliminating discrimination, and building an inclusive society where everyone, regardless of ability, can succeed.
She implored the beneficiaries to remain dedicated and focused on their businesses, using the resources provided judiciously to allow other prospective individuals to benefit from these gestures.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youths and Social Development, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Oke-Osanyintolu, represented by the Director of Child Development in the Ministry, Mrs. Bukayo Odukoya, stated that the event is a testament to a shared commitment to an equitable and prosperous society, ensuring that everyone has access to development.
She reiterated the government’s resolve to continuously support the needs of individuals with disabilities while seeking collaboration with the private sector to further initiatives aimed at building an inclusive society where no one is left behind.
Beneficiaries at the event expressed their gratitude to the state government for its unwavering commitment to ensuring their financial and economic independence and for improving the lives of persons with disabilities, enabling them to contribute positively to society.
