Lagos Disability Groups Demand Better Public Access

Disability advocacy groups in Lagos have expressed strong criticism of the Lagos State government for failing to ensure adequate access to public facilities for individuals with disabilities. During a press conference held on Monday, which marked the conclusion of a statewide access advocacy project, representatives from various organizations, including the Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria and the Fajemilo Foundation, highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by thousands of disabled individuals in accessing essential services.

Mr. Rose Mordi, the National President of the Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria, emphasized that the rights of persons with disabilities are guaranteed by existing laws, including the Lagos State Special People’s Law. Mr. Afolabi Fajemilo called for stricter enforcement of access standards in public projects, stressing that accessibility must be integrated into the planning and design stages.

The advocacy project revealed widespread non-compliance with access standards across public infrastructure and services, prompting calls for increased public awareness and involvement of disability organizations in future public projects.