The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) and the Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA) have pledged to strengthen collaboration towards ensuring full compliance with laws protecting Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), with a particular focus on making public parking spaces more accessible to individuals with disabilities
This commitment was reinforced during a courtesy visit by LASODA’s management team, led by its General Manager, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, to the LASPA headquarters in GRA, Ikeja.
The visit provided a platform to discuss strategic ways to foster inclusivity, drive policy implementation, and ensure public spaces, especially parking areas, cater effectively to the needs of PWDs.
Speaking during the meeting, Mrs. Oyetunde-Lawal underscored LASODA’s unwavering mission to promote the welfare and rights of PWDs in Lagos State.
She noted that accessibility goes beyond symbolic gestures or superficial infrastructure – it must be meaningful, functional, and truly serve those for whom it is intended.
“It is important that our ramps are genuinely accessible and convenient for PWDs to use,” she stated.
“In accordance with the Lagos State Special People’s Law, at least one out of every 10 parking spaces must be reserved for PWDs. Accessibility is a critical foundation in building an inclusive society where all citizens can thrive.”
She also drew attention to the frequent misuse and neglect of PWD-designated facilities.
“Too often, parking spots and ramps marked for PWDs are either blocked, poorly maintained, or occupied by individuals without disabilities, leaving those who truly need them stranded,” she lamented.
She called for greater enforcement and public awareness to protect the rights of PWDs.
Earlier in her welcome remarks, the General Manager of LASPA, Mrs. Adebisi Adelabu, reaffirmed the Authority’s dedication to improving accessibility across Lagos.
She highlighted the importance of aligning efforts with LASODA to eliminate existing barriers and promote equal participation in daily activities for all residents.
“This collaboration goes beyond legal compliance – it reflects our vision of a truly inclusive city where every resident, regardless of ability, has equal access to public infrastructure,” Mrs. Adelabu said.
She also assured the LASODA team of LASPA’s commitment to enhancing the accessibility of its digital platforms, including its official website, to better serve PWDs.
According to her, access to digital services is just as vital as physical accessibility in today’s world.
Both agencies concluded the meeting with a shared resolve to pursue sustainable strategies that will improve the lives of PWDs in Lagos, positioning the state as a national leader in inclusivity and accessibility.
