In an unprecedented display of compassion and inclusivity, Honorable Kafilat Ogbara, Member of the Federal House of Representatives representing Kosofe Federal Constituency, marked this year’s Valentine’s Day by celebrating with Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
The event, which set a new benchmark in advocacy and empowerment, underscored the lawmaker’s unwavering commitment to fostering a more inclusive society.
The celebration was not merely symbolic but deeply impactful, as Hon. Ogbara extended substantial support to the PWD community. She empowered small business owners among them with a cash grant of ₦200,000 each to bolster their enterprises, reinforcing economic independence and sustainability. Additionally, she distributed essential mobility aids, including wheelchairs, crutches, and other assistive devices, to ease their movement and communication challenges.
In her address, Hon. Ogbara emphasized the importance of love and inclusivity, urging her constituents and the broader society to embrace and support PWDs. She reiterated the necessity of breaking barriers and ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens, irrespective of their physical challenges.
“This Valentine’s Day, we are reminded that love transcends all boundaries. True love is reflected in how we care for one another, particularly those who need it the most. Our brothers and sisters living with disabilities deserve our utmost support, and it is our collective duty to create an enabling environment for them,” she stated.
The lawmaker also used the platform to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its progressive stance on disability inclusion. She acknowledged the government’s ongoing initiatives aimed at empowering PWDs, highlighting the administration’s dedication to social equity.
“The Tinubu administration has adopted a proactive approach towards empowering Persons with Disabilities. It is a commitment that must be sustained and supported at all levels of governance. I am proud to echo this vision and ensure its implementation in my constituency,” she added.
The event was met with widespread appreciation from the PWD community, who expressed their heartfelt gratitude for Hon. Ogbara’s thoughtfulness and dedication. Many of them lauded her as a beacon of hope, praising her for prioritizing their needs since assuming office.
“This is the first time we are experiencing this level of care and consideration. Honorable Ogbara has not only given us hope but has also empowered us to pursue our dreams without limitations,” said a beneficiary, Mr. Samuel Adewole, who received financial assistance to expand his small business.
Another recipient, Mrs. Funmilayo Ojo, who was gifted a new wheelchair, described the gesture as life-changing. “With this wheelchair, I can now move around with greater ease and dignity. Honorable Ogbara has truly shown us love, not just in words but in action,” she remarked.
The event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusivity in governance and society at large. By setting a precedent for meaningful engagement with the PWD community, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara has reaffirmed her commitment to social justice and empowerment, demonstrating that true leadership is measured by its impact on the most vulnerable members of society.
As the Valentine’s Day celebration concluded, the atmosphere was filled with joy, gratitude, and a renewed sense of belonging among the PWDs in Kosofe Federal Constituency. The lawmaker’s initiative stands as an exemplary model for others, reinforcing the notion that love and empowerment must go hand in hand in building a truly inclusive society.