Lagos, Nigeria – July, 2025 — In a remarkable demonstration of youth-driven innovation and commitment to inclusive development, the 2023/2024 Fellows of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy have unveiled the ‘EmpowerAbility Hub’, a dynamic initiative aimed at empowering persons living with disabilities and promoting inclusive economic participation across Lagos State.
The project, launched as part of the Fellows’ social impact initiative, seeks to provide a supportive ecosystem that combines skills acquisition, entrepreneurship development, access to assistive technologies, and psychosocial support for individuals with disabilities.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony held at the Lagos State Government Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, one of the Fellows emphasized that the hub represents a shared vision of inclusivity, equity, and dignity. “This is not charity—it’s empowerment,” the Fellow stated, stressing that the initiative aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s inclusive governance agenda.
The ‘EmpowerAbility Hub’ will also serve as a safe space where beneficiaries can access digital literacy training, vocational education, and business mentorship programs. It aims to reduce unemployment and marginalization within the disability community, while promoting a culture of innovation and self-reliance.
Dignitaries at the event included representatives from the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, and various disability rights groups, all of whom applauded the Fellows for their foresight and leadership.
The Director-General of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, commended the Fellows for translating their leadership training into tangible impact. “This is what the Academy stands for—developing leaders who act with empathy, purpose, and results,” she noted.
The ‘EmpowerAbility Hub’ is expected to operate as a pilot program, with plans underway to scale it across more local governments in Lagos in collaboration with state and non-state actors.
Leave feedback about this