Osun State joined the global community on Wednesday 3rd December, 2025 to mark the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), with fresh commitments from government officials and stakeholders to improve disability inclusion and social development across the state.
The event, held in Osogbo, provided the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke to reiterate its commitment to inclusive governance.
The event brought together government officials, civil society groups, disability advocates and the public.
The Executive Secretary of the Osun Health Insurance Agency (OSHIA), Dr. Razaq Akindele, noted that the celebration shows the government’s strong commitment to the welfare of persons with disabilities.
“It is a day celebrated worldwide to show the importance of people living with disabilities. The government has provided POS machines and financial support to reduce dependence and help them become self-sufficient,” he said.
Akindele noted that Governor Ademola Adeleke had earlier approved free health insurance for all registered persons with disabilities, along with mobility aids and assistive devices to make life easier for them.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the Osun State Bureau for People with Disabilities, Rotarian Ayobami Oyewumi Oyetunde, said the celebration was an opportunity to create better awareness about disability rights and to promote dignity, access and inclusion.
He explained that persons with disabilities contribute to economic growth and social justice and should be fully involved in decision-making.
“This year’s celebration calls us to reflect on the need to amplify the voices of Persons with Disabilities and bridge the gaps that remain. They influence policies and drive social growth; they should not be left behind because there is no true development without inclusion,” he said.
He praised Governor Adeleke for signing the Osun State Discrimination Against Persons with Disability (Prohibition) Law, 2024, which led to the creation of the Bureau for People with Disabilities on January 2, 2025.
Oyetunde also appreciated the support of government agencies, NGOs and individuals, including the First Lady, Ambassador Ngozi Abeni Adeleke, and the Deputy Governor’s wife, Deaconess Olusola Adewusi.
A member of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, Taofik Hari, described the day as one of global recognition and love for people with special needs.
He said the governor’s quick approval of the discrimination law shows clear commitment to disability issues.
“Today is a special day globally for people with special needs. Our governor has performed excellently; within his first hundred days, he signed the discrimination bill into law. Previous administrations could not do it, but he did,” he added.
The OSHIA distributed no fewer than 250 POS machines and grants to support the economic development of PWDs and improve financial independence. He urged the disability community to remain united and focused.
The event ended with a renewed promise to build a society free from discrimination and to expand fair opportunities for persons with disabilities in Osun State.
Advertisement
