The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has hosted the 2026 Ability Expo and Talent Hunt, reaffirming its commitment to promoting inclusion, creativity and economic empowerment for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Eko Hot News reports that the event was held at the Event Hall of Ikeja Local Government Area, where participants showcased their talents, creativity and entrepreneurial skills.
The annual programme provided a platform for Persons with Disabilities to exhibit their abilities through arts, crafts, music, dance, innovation and business ideas.
Speaking at the event, the General Manager of LASODA, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, represented by the Director of Administration and Human Resources, Mrs. Sonubi Omolade Adeola, said the expo was organised to promote inclusion, self-reliance and economic empowerment.
She appreciated Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for his administration’s continued support for disability inclusion through the THEMES+ Development Agenda.
According to her, the Ability Expo and Talent Hunt demonstrates the government’s commitment to creating equal opportunities for Persons with Disabilities across Lagos State.
Mrs. Oyetunde-Lawal explained that the annual programme encourages participants to showcase their talents while inspiring confidence and promoting social inclusion.
She stressed that Persons with Disabilities should be recognised for their abilities, resilience and contributions to society rather than their physical limitations.
According to her, every individual deserves equal opportunities to realise their potential and contribute meaningfully to community and national development.
The General Manager noted that building an inclusive society requires collaboration among government institutions, the private sector, civil society organisations and the public.
She said access to quality education, healthcare, employment opportunities, skills acquisition and public infrastructure remains essential to promoting equal opportunities for all.
Mrs. Oyetunde-Lawal reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to implementing policies and programmes that protect the rights, dignity and welfare of Persons with Disabilities.
She encouraged participants to remain confident, continue developing their talents and take advantage of opportunities available through government initiatives and partnerships.
According to her, Lagos State will continue to champion programmes that empower vulnerable groups and ensure that no resident is left behind in the state’s development.
Delivering a lecture during the event, Special Needs Consultant, Mr. Temitope Ogundipo, urged parents and stakeholders to identify and nurture the talents of children with disabilities from an early stage.
He emphasised the importance of vocational education and skills development as effective tools for building confidence and creating sustainable career opportunities.
Also speaking, Mr. Agoro Abdulrahman of the University of Lagos called for greater inclusion and improved digital literacy for Persons with Disabilities.
He noted that access to technology and digital skills will enable more people living with disabilities to participate fully in education, employment and entrepreneurship.
The Head of LASODA’s Legal Unit, Barrister Babatunde Shefiu, commended media organisations for supporting disability advocacy through sustained public awareness.
He encouraged Persons with Disabilities to pursue excellence in their chosen careers while taking advantage of available educational and professional opportunities.
The event featured colourful exhibitions of handmade crafts, creative products, music performances, dance displays and entrepreneurial showcases by participants from different communities.
The talent hunt competition also recognised outstanding participants across several categories, celebrating excellence, creativity and innovation.
Guests at the event applauded LASODA for creating a platform that highlights the abilities and achievements of Persons with Disabilities while promoting greater public awareness.
Stakeholders described the programme as another important step towards building an inclusive Lagos where every resident has the opportunity to contribute to the state’s growth.
LASODA reiterated its commitment to expanding initiatives that encourage inclusion, protect the rights of Persons with Disabilities and strengthen their participation in social and economic development.
The agency expressed confidence that sustained collaboration with government agencies, development partners and the private sector will further improve opportunities for Persons with Disabilities across Lagos State.
