'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence Anniversary, Hon. Tolu Bankole, the APC National Leader for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), has called on all Nigerians to work toward creating a truly inclusive society. In a press statement issued on Monday, September 30, 2024, Bankole highlighted the country’s progress while acknowledging the economic challenges currently facing the population.
Bankole began by extending warm felicitations to Nigerians and expressed pride in the nation's rich history and the strides made toward a more equitable society. He, however, noted that the ongoing economic difficulties—rising inflation, increasing costs of living, and general uncertainty—have hit many citizens hard, particularly Persons with Disabilities.
“These are tough times, and Persons with Disabilities feel the full weight of these hardships,” Bankole stated. Despite these challenges, he urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and resilient. He emphasized that while the ongoing reforms are difficult, they are crucial to stabilizing the economy and building a prosperous future for all.
Reflecting on Nigeria's journey toward inclusivity, Bankole applauded the progress made in promoting the rights of Persons with Disabilities. He acknowledged the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018 as a significant turning point, describing it as a "watershed moment" in the pursuit of equal rights for PWDs. The legislation, according to Bankole, has created a platform for advocacy, equal opportunities, and access to public services for individuals with disabilities across the country.
Hon. Bankole commended the APC-led government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for its commitment to inclusivity. He praised the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope agenda, which has expanded social intervention programs and improved access to education, healthcare, and skills acquisition for PWDs. “These efforts are not only commendable but a testament to the government’s recognition that true national development must involve every segment of the population,” Bankole said.
In his message, Bankole called on all tiers of government—federal, state, and local—to fully embrace inclusivity in governance. He emphasized that the country’s future depends on ensuring the participation of PWDs in all sectors, including the economy, politics, education, and healthcare.
“Thinking inclusion economically means creating job opportunities and fostering entrepreneurship among PWDs. Politically, it demands more representation in governance, while in healthcare, it means providing accessible medical services tailored to the unique needs of PWDs,” Bankole explained.
He urged all Nigerians to work together to build a nation where no one is left behind, regardless of their physical or mental abilities, stressing that inclusivity should not just be a policy but a way of life.
As Nigeria continues its journey toward a more inclusive society, Bankole reminded citizens that the strength of a nation lies in its unity and ability to uplift every individual. He expressed hope for a future where inclusivity becomes the norm, ensuring that all Nigerians, especially those with disabilities, have a place in the nation’s development.
“May Nigeria continue to flourish as we march toward a future where inclusivity is not just a policy but a way of life,” Bankole concluded.
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