The maiden edition of empowerment programme and fund raising of N20million for people with disability has been scheduled to hold on Thursday April 24, 2025 in Abeokuta, Ogun State Capital.
Penpushing reports that the programme, is brainchild of Opeyemi and Abiodun with the theme,’ Setting Loose from Hunger, as a Person with Disability”, which will take place at Baptist Church, Multipurpose Children’s Hall, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta
The statement from the organisers explained that they have witnessed firsthand struggles of people with disabilities in Nigeria, adding that their experiences over the past five years have led to birth the Opeyemi and Abiodun Media Disability Support Initiative (OAMEDISI).
Penpushing further reports that the statement added that for centuries, people with disabilities in Nigeria have relied on begging or family support, leading to a loss of dignity and self-worth, noting that, despite these challenges, some people with disabilities have broken through the barriers to achieve success, while others languish in poverty.
‘We believe that people with disabilities possess inherent abilities and talents that can be harnessed to improve their lives. Our initiative aims to provide empowerment through micro-enterprise, equipping people with disabilities with the skills and resources needed to become self-sufficient’ the organisers added.
Penpushing also reports that the group in same vein, make some recommendations to the government ahead of the programme which include revamp technical education colleges and equip them to provide skills training for people with disabilities.
The other recommendations are to address the medical needs of people with disabilities / children with neurodiverse conditions, such as cerebral palsy and autism, by reducing medical expenses and providing free medication and incorporate non-governmental organizations in implementing policies and programs for people with disabilities.
Penpushing further reports that the recommendations equally include fully implement the disability bill and create accessible infrastructure to enhance mobility and independence and partner with Non-Governmental Organisations(NGOs) to provide technological training and empowerment programs for people with disabilities.
The organisers stated that their initiative will provide empowerment programs, including: POS machines, Icing coolers with sachet water and pet drinks, gas cylinders, pots for street food businesses
‘We invite government agencies, NGOs, and well-meaning Nigerians to support this initiative and help us make a meaningful impact in the lives of people with disabilities. We believe that our initiative will bring smiles to the faces of people with disabilities and empowers them to become self-sufficient. We look forward to your support and partnership in this noble endeavor’, the organisers emphasised.
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