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Mrs. Abimbola Fashola (M) and Princess Sarah Sosan (2nd R) inspecting wares on display at the exhibition during the 2008 International Day.


Mrs. Abimbola Fashola (M) and Princess Sarah Sosan (R) cheering up a child during the 2008 International Day for Persons With Disabilities.

Speeches

Dec 3, 2008 - 2008 International Day For Persons Living With Disabilities

Today, we join the rest of the world to commemorate this year’s International Day for Persons Living with Disabilities. By our gathering here, we identify with those among us who are physically challenged as part of the human community.

As it is often said, and aptly demonstrated today – there is ability in disability. Quite a number of physically challenged people are doing amazing things and are contributing to the progress of the society and humanity all over the globe including our nation.

The most important thing they require from us is understanding, love, care and support to be able to rise above their disabilities and live a meaningful life. We also need to offer our support to parents who face the challenges of raising children with one form of disability or the other. I commend and appreciate the courage of these parents who are required to put in extra efforts, energy and resources to give the necessary care to their children.

May I use this opportunity to appeal to parents with children with disability not to confine them in the house. Please enrol them in the Special Schools and Inclusive units where they will be given the necessary exposure and special training that would make them useful to themselves and the society.

I wish to note with commendation, the effort of Her Excellency, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Princess Sarah Adebisi Sosan to transform the state’s Special Schools and Inclusive units to make them more effective in giving adequate care to children with disabilities. I am therefore using this opportunity to once again call on parents with children with disabilities to take advantage of these special schools by enrolling them in these institutions.

To all the teachers in the various Special Schools, I say well done for the wonderful job you are doing. God almighty will reward you and bless your efforts.

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, let us try to understand the nature of people living with disabilities, love them and assist in whatever way we can to make life easier for them including giving those of them who are qualified special consideration for employment.

Finally, I commend the organisers of this event and wish everyone Happy Eid-El-Kabir/Barka de Salah, merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year in advance.

Thank you and God bless you all.

 

Her Excellency
Mrs. Abimbola Fashola
The First Lady of Lagos State