LASODA Reiterates Call For Empathy Towards People With Disabilities

The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has again reiterated its call for inclusivity and empathy towards persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Engr. (Mrs.) Abimbola Akinajo and her team on Friday, the General Manager of LASODA, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, emphasised the need for societal change.

Mrs. Oyetunde-Lawal underscored the importance of recognising and accommodating the diverse needs of PWDs, urging a shift beyond policy-making towards fostering a culture of empathy.

She noted the diversity within the disability community, where needs vary across different categories, adding that disability conditions can range from mild to severe, including visual, hearing, physical, neurological and intellectual issues.

The LASODA Boss pointed out that recognising the humanity in each individual is crucial for creating a truly inclusive environment.

Engr. Akinajo, in her remarks, said that the purpose of the visit was to facilitate a better relationship between both agencies and

expressed LAMATA’s commitment to collaborating with the LASODA.

Applauding LASODA’s holistic perspective on disability issues, she assured that together, they can both explore avenues that will enhance service delivery and promote inclusivity within Lagos State.

Her words, “We are here to deliberate on ways to ensure better collaboration with LASODA to create an all-encompassing transportation system in Lagos State.

“Your holistic view of disability groups will undoubtedly assist us in our quest for inclusivity. LAMATA welcomes the opportunity to collaborate with LASODA to achieve this goal”, Engr. Akinajo stated.

The visit was concluded with the presentation of a compendium of LAMATA’s activities and cowry cards for Persons with Disabilities, symbolising a step forward in the journey towards a more inclusive society.