Lasoda

LASODA DISBURSES N50.4M MEDICAL FUNDS TO 30 PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and wellbeing of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Lagos State with the disbursement of N50,404,506.78 in medical assistance to 30 beneficiaries requiring urgent medical intervention.

The intervention, which is part of a newly adopted initiative by the Agency, is aimed at providing financial support to PWDs facing various health challenges and easing the burden of accessing essential medical care.

Speaking during the presentation held at the LASODA premises, Alausa, Ikeja, on Monday, 10 August 2026, the General Manager of LASODA, Mrs Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, said the initiative was introduced to support PWDs requiring medical attention for surgeries, prolonged illnesses and other identified medical needs.

She said the intervention reflects the commitment of the Lagos State Government, to promoting the health, welfare and social inclusion of Persons with Disabilities across the State.

In her words, “On behalf of the Lagos State Governor, the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, and the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs, we are giving you these funds to cater to your medical needs, ranging from surgeries to the treatment of prolonged illnesses and other medical conditions, as requested by you.”

The LASODA boss explained that funds for beneficiaries requiring substantial medical expenses would be paid directly to the hospitals, while beneficiaries receiving smaller amounts to cater to prolonged medical needs would receive the funds directly.

She therefore urged the beneficiaries to ensure that the funds were used strictly for the purposes for which they were provided.

“I urge you all to use the money for the purpose for which it is given,” she added.

The General Manager also appealed to fathers to take greater responsibility for the care and wellbeing of their children with disabilities, stressing the importance of both parents in supporting children with disabilities.

She noted that the intervention was also designed to ease the burden on mothers, particularly women who have been left to shoulder the responsibility of caring for their children with disabilities alone.

“Fathers should try as much as possible to care for their children with disabilities. These children need both parents. We are doing this to ease the burden on our mothers, especially women who have been left alone to care for their children with disabilities,” she said.

The beneficiaries expressed their appreciation to the Lagos State Government and LASODA for the intervention, noting that the financial assistance would go a long way in alleviating the burden of their medical expenses and supporting them in accessing the treatment they require.

The General Manager assured Persons with Disabilities across Lagos State of LASODA’s continued commitment to promoting their welfare through policies, programmes and interventions designed to improve their quality of life.

“LASODA is here for you, and we will always promote your welfare through policies and programmes that improve your lives,” she added.

LASODA HOSTS 2026 ABILITY EXPO AND TALENT HUNT, CELEBRATES CREATIVITY AND INCLUSION OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, hosted the 2026 Ability Expo and Talent Hunt held at the Event Hall of Ikeja Local Government Area, providing a platform for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to showcase their creativity, skills, and entrepreneurial talents.

Speaking at the event, the General Manager of LASODA, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, represented by the Director of Administration and Human Resources, Mrs. Sonubi Omolade Adeola, said the Expo was organized to promote inclusion, economic empowerment, and self-reliance while celebrating the abilities of PWDs.

She appreciated the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, for his administration's continued commitment to disability inclusion through the THEMES+ Agenda.

Mrs. Oyetunde-Lawal described the Ability Expo and Talent Hunt as an annual programme that enables PWDs to showcase their talents in areas such as crafts, music, arts, and entrepreneurship, stressing that the initiative reflects the government's vision of leaving no one behind by focusing on abilities rather than disabilities.

She emphasised that Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) should never be defined by their physical limitations, but rather by their abilities, talents, resilience and invaluable contributions to society. According to her, every individual deserves equal opportunities to realise their full potential and contribute meaningfully to national development.

She further noted that creating an inclusive society requires the collective commitment of government, the private sector, civil society organisations and the public to eliminate barriers that hinder the full participation of Persons with Disabilities.

Oyetunde-Lawal, stressed that access to quality education, healthcare, employment, skills acquisition and public infrastructure remains fundamental to achieving equity and social inclusion.

The General Manager reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to promoting policies and programmes that protect the rights, dignity and welfare of Persons with Disabilities.

She encouraged PWDs to remain confident, continue to develop their talents and take advantage of available opportunities, assuring them that the Government would continue to champion initiatives that foster inclusion, empower vulnerable groups and ensure that no one is left behind in the State’s development journey.

While delivering his lecture, special needs consultant Mr. Temitope Ogundipo urged parents and stakeholders to identify and nurture the talents of children with disabilities, emphasizing vocational training as a tool for building confidence and breaking barriers.

Also speaking, Mr. Agoro Abdulrahman of the University of Lagos, Akoka, advocated greater inclusion and digital literacy for Persons with Disabilities.

The Head of LASODA's Legal Unit, Barrister Babatunde Shefiu, commended the media for supporting disability advocacy and encouraged Persons with Disabilities to strive for excellence in their chosen careers.

The event featured craft exhibitions, dance and music performances, product displays, and talent hunt competitions, with winners emerging in various categories.

LASODA, MVAA COLLABORATE ON SPECIAL VEHICLE NUMBER PLATES FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has initiated discussions with the Lagos State Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA) on the introduction of specialised vehicle number plates for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Lagos State, as part of ongoing efforts to promote inclusion, accessibility and ease of mobility.

The engagement took place during a courtesy visit by the management of LASODA to the MVAA, where both agencies explored areas of collaboration on the development and implementation of a disability friendly vehicle identification system.

Speaking during the meeting, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA), Mr Abdulrasheed Muri-Okunola, described the initiative as a significant step towards achieving the vision of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu's administration to build "A Greater Lagos That Leaves No One Behind."

He noted that the proposed specialised number plates would enhance recognition, accessibility and ease of movement for Persons with Disabilities across the State.

"This is indeed a laudable initiative that aligns perfectly with the principles of inclusive governance. We are committed to supporting this process and are confident that the collaboration between our agencies will yield positive results," he said.

Mr Muri-Okunola disclosed that discussions had already commenced with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on the proposed specialised number plates for Persons with Disabilities in Lagos State.

He added that the Agency would commence the required administrative processes and continue to liaise closely with LASODA to drive the initiative to fruition.

Earlier, the General Manager of LASODA, Mrs Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, said the visit was aimed at initiating strategic discussions on the introduction of specialised number plates that would cater to the needs of Persons with Disabilities in Lagos State.

She stressed that the initiative should be inclusive of all categories of Persons with Disabilities, as well as parents of children with disabilities and their caregivers, noting that such a system would significantly improve identification, accessibility and support for members of the disability community.

"Inclusion is not just a buzzword; it is a reality that must be reflected in every policy and system we put in place. Specialised number plates will not only aid identification but also reinforce our commitment to building a society where no one is left behind," she said.

Mrs Oyetunde-Lawal further urged all stakeholders to see themselves as agents of inclusion, emphasising that creating an inclusive society is a shared responsibility.

"Inclusion begins with you and me. Every one of us has a role to play in ensuring that persons with disabilities are recognised, respected and fully integrated into every aspect of society," she added.

Both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to working together to advance the initiative, which aligns with the provisions of the Lagos State Special People's Law (LSSPL) that established LASODA to safeguard the rights of Persons with Disabilities, eliminate discrimination and promote equal opportunities in all spheres of society. The introduction of specialised vehicle number plates is expected to further enhance accessibility, visibility and the full participation of Persons with Disabilities in Lagos State.

The highly interactive meeting concluded with both agencies reaffirming their commitment to advancing the initiative. It was attended by directors and senior management staff from the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) and the Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA).

LASODA, DIAN COMMEMORATE INTERNATIONAL DEAFBLIND AWARENESS WEEK, ADVOCATE STRONGER INCLUSION

The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusive policies and programmes that improve the quality of life of persons with deafblindness.

In collaboration with the Deafblind Inclusion and Advocacy Network (DIAN), A policy roundtable was organised to commemorate the International Deafblind Awareness Week 2026.

The event, themed "Leaving No One Behind: Enhancing Health, Education and Rehabilitation Training for Nigerians with Deafblindness," provided a platform for stakeholders to review progress made in advancing the rights of persons with deafblindness and identify practical strategies for strengthening inclusion.

The roundtable brought together government officials, disability advocates, healthcare professionals, educators, development partners and members of the deafblind community.

Speaking at the event, the Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Tolani Ali-Balogun, reaffirmed the state's commitment to inclusive education, stressing that the government was moving "beyond integration to true inclusion."
Represented by the Ministry's Inclusive Education Desk Officer, Mr. Azeez Aliu, the Commissioner commended DIAN for championing the rights of one of society's most marginalised yet resilient groups.

"A child who cannot fully see or hear does not lack intelligence or potential. What they lack is access to early identification, tactile learning, assistive technology, trained interveners and a system that understands their communication needs," he said.

Ali-Balogun added that the state government was strengthening inclusive education through curriculum adaptation, Braille resources, tactile sign language, teacher aides, capacity building for teachers and improved early screening and intervention, while equipping learners with deafblindness with the skills needed to live independent and productive lives.

"To our students with deafblindness here today, you are seen, you are heard, you are valued. Lagos State has not forgotten you, and your future matters to us," he added.

The General Manager of LASODA, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, represented by the Director of Social Development and Integration, Mr. Kelani Akeem, said persons with deafblindness continue to face significant barriers in accessing healthcare, education and social services. She noted that the policy dialogue was organised to review progress, identify existing gaps and develop practical strategies that would strengthen policies and interventions aimed at improving access to healthcare, inclusive education, assistive technology and rehabilitation services.

Speaking earlier, the Founder and Executive Director of Lionheart Ability Leaders International Foundation, Mr. Solomon Okelola, said the Deafblind Inclusion and Advocacy Network (DIAN), launched on October 8, 2024, was established to advance the academic, health and social inclusion of persons with deafblindness.

"Our focus is on empowering persons with deafblindness towards self-actualisation, independence and productive participation in society," he said.
Okelola called for specialised training for teachers and healthcare professionals, increased funding for assistive devices and rehabilitation services, improved data collection to support evidence-based policymaking, and stronger collaboration among government, civil society organisations and the private sector to ensure that no one is left behind.

The policy roundtable featured robust discussions and recommendations aimed at strengthening disability-inclusive policies and expanding opportunities for persons with deafblindness across health, education and social development sectors.

Words matter. The way we speak to persons with disabilities reflects our acceptance of inclusion.

Let’s avoid assumptions, pity and insensitive remarks.

Lead with respect, dignity and kindness because everyone deserves to be seen beyond their disability.

In commemoration of World Autism Awareness Day, we joined the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to receive Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke at Lagos House, Marina.

Kanyeyachukwu, a young autism advocate, completed an extraordinary 687km endurance ride from Enugu to Lagos, a powerful reflection of courage, resilience and possibility. His journey reinforces an important message: every child on the autism spectrum has immense potential that deserves to be nurtured, supported and celebrated.

Moments like this continue to strengthen awareness and inspire a more inclusive society where no one is left behind.

The energy was high and the message was clear!

On Saturday, April 4th, 2026, our General Manager, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, joined stakeholders, advocates and families at the Lagos Autism Awareness Walk 2026 organised by TLP Centre in Lagos.

From every step taken to every smile shared, the walk was a vibrant show of unity, raising awareness, promoting inclusion and celebrating the uniqueness of individuals on the autism spectrum.

Mrs. Adenike reaffirmed LASODA’s commitment to supporting impactful initiatives that drive awareness, encourage early intervention and create an enabling environment for persons with autism and other developmental conditions.

LASODA, NIGERBELL CELEBRATE WORLD HEARING DAY 2026 WITH FREE HEARING TESTS FOR CHILDREN

The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), in collaboration with Nigerbell Hearing Centres Ltd, marked the 2026 World Hearing Day with a free hearing screening exercise for selected school children with disabilities.

The event, held on March 3, 2026, at Nigerbell Hearing Centres in Ikeja, aligned with this year’s theme: “From Communities to Classrooms: Hearing Care for All Children.” The initiative underscored the importance of early detection and intervention in addressing hearing challenges among children.

Welcoming guests and participants, the Audiologist, Dr Barnabas Bem Vangerwua, emphasized that hearing care for all children is critical, particularly from an early age. He noted that undetected hearing loss can significantly affect a child’s speech, learning ability, and overall development.

Dr. Vangerwua urged parents to ensure that newborn babies undergo hearing screening immediately after birth to determine their hearing status. According to him, early testing enables prompt intervention, which can greatly improve outcomes for children with hearing impairments.

He also called for the integration of routine hearing tests into primary healthcare services across Lagos State. “If hearing screening becomes a standard practice in our primary healthcare centres, parents will have easier access to early diagnosis and intervention,” he said.

Nigerbell, a leading hearing healthcare provider, specializes in the prevention, identification, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of hearing difficulties in both adults and children. The centre provides comprehensive hearing assessments as well as hearing aid prescriptions, fittings, and adjustments tailored to patients’ needs.

LASODA EMPOWERS 100 PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES ON SUSTAINABLE ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND BUSINESS REGISTRATION

The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) on Tuesday, January 21, 2026, organized a capacity-building programme for 100 persons with disabilities (PWDs) with the theme “Building Sustainable Enterprises: Entrepreneurial Growth and Business Registration.” The programme was held at the STO Resources Centre, Ikeja, Lagos.

In her welcome address, the General Manager of LASODA, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, warmly welcomed participants and expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Governor for his continuous support toward disability inclusion.

She noted that many persons with disabilities are often excluded from financial support and grants due to the absence of Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration, a gap the programme seeks to address.

Mrs. Oyetunde-Lawal emphasized LASODA’s commitment to improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities through economic empowerment. She explained that one of the key objectives of the programme is to support PWDs in establishing practical, sustainable, and continuous businesses. According to her, the initiative also focuses on preparing participants for business management, financial literacy, and proper record keeping.

She stressed the importance of business documentation and record keeping, noting that CAC registration is a prerequisite for accessing most financial grants and business opportunities. She further highlighted the need to conduct businesses in the right manner to ensure sustainability and to build lasting legacies that can be passed on to future generations.

The programme featured expert facilitators who delivered lectures on various aspects of business development. The first lecture was delivered by Mrs. Adetutu Adedayo Ijasan, who spoke on “Taxation in Nigeria.” She educated participants on the new tax system in Nigeria.

INCLUSIVE CHESS DAY PROMOTES EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR EVERY CHILD

Whitesands School, Lekki, came alive on Saturday, 3rd December, as children gathered for the Inclusive Chess Day, themed “Every Child Deserves a Move.” The event showcased the power of collaboration in advancing disability inclusion through sports and intellectual engagement.

The programme was made possible through a strong partnership between Vulpes Inclusive Engagement, the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), and Chess in the Slum Africa, all working together to promote awareness, inclusion, and equal opportunities for children with disabilities.

In her remarks, the General Manager of LASODA reaffirmed that the agency’s paramount focus is to partner with individuals and organisations with impactful initiatives that drive conversations and action around disability inclusion in Lagos State.

The organiser of the event, Onyinye Atuanya, described the Inclusive Chess Day as a platform to celebrate children with disabilities while raising awareness for inclusion through the game of chess. She noted that chess provides an avenue where every child can think, participate, and thrive, regardless of ability.

The highlight of the day was the interactive chess sessions led by Tunde Onakoya and his team from Chess in the Slum Africa, who engaged the children in inspiring and skill-building activities that reinforced confidence, critical thinking, and inclusion.

The Inclusive Chess Day created a welcoming space where children with disabilities felt seen, valued, and included. Powerfully affirming that indeed, every child deserves a move.