Governor of Oyo State, ‘Seyi Makinde, has congratulated persons living with disabilities in the State, Nigeria, and all over the world on the occasion of the December 3, 2021 International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

The governor, in a goodwill message to PWDs around the world, made public by his Media Office and signed by the Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, restated his commitment to integrating PWDs into the core of his administration.

He added that in line with the theme of the 2021 International Day of Persons With Disabilities, which theme borders on leadership and participation of PWDs towards and accessible, inclusive and sustainable POST-COVID-19 world, his administration would continue to include PWDs in governance across all strata.

He said: “We will continue to run an all-inclusive government. I am using this occasion to reiterate our commitment to ensuring the participation of Persons With Disabilities in all strata of government while also seeking an enabling environment for all in a post COVID-19 world.”

While highlighting the governor’s impact on the PWDs community in Oyo State, the statement indicated that Makinde kickstarted the inclusion of PWDs in his government through the appointment of the Executive Assistant on Disability Matters, Barr. Ayodele Adekanmbi, which is the highest ranking position held by any PWD in the country.

The statement further read: “In addition, His Excellency has appointed one PWD supervisor for each Local Government and Local Council Development Areas (LCDA) in Oyo State.

“To enhance the quality of education of disabled students in the State, his administration has upgraded the learning aids in special schools in Oyo State to meet global best standards and distributed needed equipment among learners with Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND).

“In 2021, the governor approved the employment of 150 disabled persons as teachers, with others such as lawyers and other professionals. They are also absorbed into State’s ministries, Departments, and agencies.

“In continuation of his bid to increase the inclusive participation of PWDs in the state, plans are afoot for the announcement of the Oyo State Disability Agency as soon as all necessary executive amendments based on contributions from all clusters of PWDs are concluded.”

The governor further assured the community of Persons with Disability in the State that his administration will support any effort they make towards personal progress as their contributions towards the inclusive development of Oyo State, the statement concluded.