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The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has taken a significant step towards empowering civil servants with disabilities by presenting work tools and assistive devices to approximately 50 employees in the state.
During the event held at the STO Resource Centre, Ikeja, on Monday, LASODA also handed cheques of N1,100,000 each to 11 individuals to assist in procuring prosthetics, aiming to boost their independence and productivity.
In her address, Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, General Manager of LASODA, explained that the initiative was aimed at fostering inclusion, empowerment, and increased accessibility for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), especially those employed by the state government.
She acknowledged the numerous requests from civil servants with disabilities seeking tools to enhance their ability to perform their duties, marking the presentation as a step toward addressing those needs.
“This initiative is more than just providing equipment; it’s about enabling our colleagues to perform their tasks with greater ease and confidence.
“These tools will empower them to contribute meaningfully to the development of Lagos State without facing barriers,” Mrs Oyetunde-Lawal said.
The work tools provided included 23 laptops, nine laptops equipped with speech-assisted software (Freedom Scientific Version 2024) for visually impaired employees, along with calipers and motorized wheelchairs.
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Some representatives were also present on behalf of children in need, who would receive similar assistive devices.
Mrs Oyetunde-Lawal further emphasized Lagos State’s commitment to being one of the largest employers of PWDs in the country.
She also encouraged Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to continue supporting staff with disabilities to unlock their full potential.
“The tools presented today are instruments of efficiency, dignity, and self-reliance, helping our colleagues with disabilities excel in their respective roles,” she added.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Oluwatoyin Oke-Osanyintolu, also spoke at the event, highlighting that the initiative is in line with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s social inclusion agenda.
She emphasised that the administration is committed to improving the welfare of people with disabilities, ensuring they are supported in all aspects of life.
“This administration, under the leadership of Governor Sanwo-Olu, is focused on creating a society that leaves no one behind, particularly individuals with disabilities.
“The work tools and assistive devices provided today will serve as a model for future initiatives, improving service delivery and productivity across Lagos State,” Mrs Oke-Osanyintolu said.
The beneficiaries expressed deep gratitude to both LASODA and Governor Sanwo-Olu for the support, noting that these tools would enhance their performance and contribute to a more inclusive and productive workforce.
