TRANSPORT DAY EDITORIAL
We commend specially the Lagos state government for its move to ease the pains of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) by way of announcing plans to introduce special number plates for them. This is instructive against the background that an estimated 6% of Nigeria population, roughly 11 million people, live with disabilities. Lagos, being one of the most populated states, is bound to be hosting a significant number.
According to reports, the initiative, set to roll out in the coming months, aims to ease identification and provide tailored support for drivers and vehicle owners with disabilities.
The policy, it was added, is part of the state’s broader commitment to improving the quality of life for its residents, particularly those with special needs. The distinctive number plates will allow authorities to better enforce disability-friendly policies, such as reserved parking spaces and priority access in public areas.
According to the state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, “This is a step towards ensuring that every Lagosian, regardless of physical ability, can navigate our city with dignity and ease. We are building an inclusive Lagos for all.”
While we commend the state government for this laudable initiative, we task it to broaden the plan to also cover pedestrians who are PWDs, as it is common to see them on Lagos roads on a daily basis struggling because there are no basic provisions for them when the roads were constructed.
It should also be noted that a significant number of public transportation buses were configured without considering PWDs, especially those on wheel chair, in mind. PWDs were also hardly considered when Bus shelters are hardly built.
While calling on other state governments to emulate Lagos, we also advise the state government to incorporate the concerned bodies like the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) and other similar groups when formulating and implementing policies like this.
