According to First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on Wednesday, Nigeria must strengthen its commitment to assisting and empowering persons with disabilities to live freely and fully engage in national life.
The First Lady made the point in her address commemorating the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
She stated a truly inclusive society is one that assures every person, regardless of physical or cognitive ability, has the opportunity to grow, contribute, and be meaningfully integrated into social and economic life.
She emphasized that ensuring everyone has equal access, protection, and empowerment is essential to Nigeria’s future.
“A truly inclusive Nigeria must ensure that persons with disabilities are supported and empowered to be independent,” Senator Tinubu declared, urging governments at all levels, institutions, and communities to strengthen policies and systems that promote accessibility, social inclusion, and dignity.
The annual observance, held under the theme “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress”, serves, she noted, as a reminder of the nation’s collective responsibility to uphold inclusion and expand opportunities for persons with disabilities.
The First Lady said the 2025 theme asks for a renewed national commitment to accessibility, empowerment, and the removal of barriers that hinder the full involvement of individuals with disabilities.
She emphasized that inclusion is a vital component of social justice, sustainable development, and national cohesion rather than a charitable endeavor.
“This day serves as a reminder of our collective duty to build a society where everyone, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive, participate, and contribute meaningfully to our shared progress,” she said.
Senator Tinubu extended her solidarity to millions of Nigerians living with disabilities, reiterating the administration’s support for inclusion measures and continued fight to enhance their rights and well being.
