"I Was Carried Upstairs to Attend Class": Change Leader’s Viral Video Exposes Nigeria’s Failing Disability Infrastructure

 

Adaobi Chuma-Okeke, an Nguvu Change Leader, has a video which is gaining attention online.

 In the video, she recounts her struggles as a wheelchair user in inaccessible schools and calls for urgent action to implement Nigeria’s Disability Rights Act.

Shared on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Adaobi’s story highlights the need for accessible infrastructure, equal opportunities, and dignity for all Nigerians living with disabilities. Her advocacy resonates with the ongoing global push for inclusivity and representation. Adaobi's video is on X, Instagram and LinkedIn.

On International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Adaobi Chuma-Okeke is advocating for accessibility, equal opportunities, safe mobility, and dignity for all Nigerians living with disabilities.

Adaobi, an Nguvu Change Leader, shared a poignant video on social media the day before the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, recounting her experiences as a person with a disability and calling for urgent action. Confined to a wheelchair, Adaobi reflects on the many struggles she faced in completing her education. "I finished my studies largely thanks to the help of supportive friends and classmates. I recall being physically carried upstairs to attend classes, and that experience, among many others, has inspired me to campaign for better accessibility in Nigerian schools."

In her video and accompanying petition, Adaobi urges the Ministry of Education and the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities to take meaningful, concrete steps. She stresses that while there are laws and policies in place, such as the Disability Rights Act, these have yet to be effectively implemented, leaving many institutions inaccessible. “Promises, policies, and laws must result in real, tangible changes. If every school – from primary to tertiary – had proper ramps and/or elevators, it would open up opportunities for countless children with disabilities to access their education. I’ve risked injury, endured great pain, and sacrificed comfort in my pursuit of learning, and I want to remove the barriers that prevent others from fully participating in their education.”

According to a press statement, Adaobi’s message resonates with the theme of this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities: “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future.” This theme aligns with the global disability rights movement’s slogan “Nothing About Us Without Us”, advocating for greater representation, agency, and inclusivity in all spheres of life. It calls for accessible public buildings, transportation systems, and services, but also for meaningful changes to the daily lives of disabled people.

The issue of accessibility is pressing, but it is not the only challenge the disability community in Nigeria faces. Beyond the physical barriers to education and public spaces, people with disabilities often encounter widespread societal discrimination and stigma. Many Nigerians with disabilities struggle to find employment, as employers are either unaware of their legal obligations or are unwilling to make the necessary adjustments. The Disability Rights Act may exist on paper, but in practice, it is not consistently enforced, and disabled people continue to face exclusion in both the workplace and public life. Moreover, there is a lack of awareness and training on disability rights among the general public and government officials, which exacerbates the difficulties faced by people with disabilities.

Adaobi’s call to action includes not only a demand for wheelchair-accessible infrastructure in educational institutions but also a broader push for inclusion in all public spaces, transport systems, and services. She highlights the need for more comprehensive policies that promote equal employment opportunities, social inclusion, and improved healthcare for people with disabilities. The need for dignity and respect for all Nigerians, regardless of their physical condition, is urgent.

Her viral video and the ongoing online discussion reflect a growing recognition of the systemic barriers faced by millions of Nigerians living with disabilities. As a result, there is increasing pressure on the government and private sector to take immediate and meaningful action to remove these obstacles and build a truly inclusive society.

About Ojude Oba festival

 The Ojude Oba festival is an annual celebration by the Yoruba people of Ijebu-Ode, a major town in Ogun State, Southwestern Nigeria. This vibrant festival takes place on the third day after Eid al-Kabir (Ileya), which is a Muslim holiday celebrating Abraham's sacrifice.

The Ojude Oba translates to "King's Court" and it serves as a time to pay homage and show respect to the Awujale of Ijebuland, the paramount ruler of the Ijebu people. It's a beautiful display of culture, fashion, and tradition, and it has grown into one of the most prestigious festivals in Nigeria.

Here are some of the highlights of the Ojude Oba festival:

• Parade: The Regberegbe parade is the heart of the Ojude Oba festival. Different age groups within Ijebu-Ode, known as Regbe regbe, dress in colorful uniform attires and parade before the Awujale. They sing, dance, and chant praises to their king.
  
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  Ojude Oba festival parade
• Fashion: The Ojude Oba festival is known for its extravagant displays of fashion. People wear their finest attire, often made from expensive fabrics.
  
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  Ojude Oba festival fashion
• Horsemen: Horsemen are a big part of the Ojude Oba festival. They ride their horses in a procession before the Awujale, showcasing their riding skills and horsemanship.
  
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  Ojude Oba festival horsemen
• Food: As with any good festival, there is plenty of food to be enjoyed at the Ojude Oba. Traditional Yoruba dishes such as pounded yam, efo riro, and amala are all popular choices.

The Ojude Oba festival is a unique and colorful celebration of Yoruba culture. It's a great opportunity to learn about the history and traditions of the Ijebu people

Why Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu won the Lagos Governorship elections

 

Yemi Olakitan

 

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was named the victor of Saturday's governorship election in Lagos State by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). 

 He was proclaimed the winner of the election by INEC's returning officer, Prof. Adenike Temidayo Oladiji, after meeting the requirements of the electoral act and the constitution.

Many were surprised as Sanwo-Olu easily defeated Labour Party candidate Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour to win the election.

Rhodes-Vivour received 312,329 votes, but Lagos State sitting Governor, Sanwo-Olu won with 762,134 votes.

As a result, it is pertinent to note the achievements of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the reasons behind Lagosians drive to retain him as Governor.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was first elected as governor of Lagos State on March 9, 2019, giving the most important position in Lagos state to a man who had pledged to serve and advance Lagos.

In his inaugural speech, "Awakening Greater Lagos," Mr. Sanwo-Olu pledged to concentrate on six development pillars known as "THEMES," to make Lagos a 21st-century economy, health and environment, education and technology, traffic management and transportation, entertainment and tourism, security, and government. 

"Our ultimate goal would be to ensure that Lagos State remains one of the best destinations on the African continent to live, work, and invest in," the governor, who is running for reelection in the 18 March elections, told Lagosians at the inaugural ceremony. He claimed that the six development pillars "reflect our response to the people's longing.’’

Before Mr. Sanwo-Olu took office in 2018, the commercial center of Nigeria produced a total of N382.1 billion.

It was one of two states whose IGR surpassed their federal allotment because the primary source of revenue was taxes.

As Mr. Sanwo-Olu was inaugurated in 2019, the IGR increased to N398 billion. Notwithstanding the COVID-19 pandemic and the Endsars demonstrations, Lagos outperformed all other states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in terms of revenue at the end of 2020, coming in at N418.99 billion.

IGR increased from the previous year by N20.26 billion (5.08%).

Sam Egube, the state's commissioner for economic planning and the budget, stated in February that they are aiming for N77.067 billion in IGR every month, or more than N900 billion annually, when he broke down the state's 2023 appropriation bill of N1.768 trillion.

The lowest of the five states with the highest unemployment rate in 2018 was Lagos, which had an unemployment rate of 14.6% prior to his election as the state governor.

With 1,088,352 unemployed residents, Lagos was one of the four states that topped the unemployment rankings in 2019.

The additional states were Kano, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers.

According to figures from BudgIT, the combined rate of unemployment and underemployment in Lagos reached 41.66 percent in 2021.

Lagos presently has a 29.4% poverty rate, however, according to a report titled Nigeria Poverty Assessment 2022: A Better Future for All Nigerians by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). Lagos was at the top of the State's Fiscal Sustainability Index before Mr. Sanwo-Olu took office.

According to the States by States Fiscal Performance Ranking report by BudgIT, Lagos rose to the fourth spot by 2021, exhibiting its resiliency with a total income of N658.56 billion for the fiscal year 2020.

In addition, in the last three and half years, Governor Sanwo-Olu has constructed and rehabilitated over 1,000 roads while others are at various stages of completion. He completed the Blue line rail while the Red line rail is under construction.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also built the Imota rice Mill at Ikorodu towards food sufficiency in Lagos State and completed the Lekki deep sea port to decongest the Apapa port in Lagos. He also obtained FG permission to build the Badagry deep sea port and the Lekki International Airport.

Sanwo-Olu commissions 150-classroom blocks, hostels in 15 Lagos Schools. Education in Lagos State witnessed another remarkable moment of infrastructure expansion, with the addition of newly built 150 blocks of classrooms and 1,386-bed hostels to 15 existing schools across the six education districts in the State.

Lagos gubernatorial elections, peaceful, taint by voter apathy

 

…Sanwo-Olu commends peaceful poll

Yemi Olakitan

The Lagos State Gubernatorial elections have been described as peaceful, calm but marred by voters’ apathy. This was the submission of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other Lagosians as they cast their votes in Lagos

While INEC officials came out on time and set their tables, the voters took their time to come out to vote in many areas of the state, although there are varying reports in various polling units.

At Ikorodu, Igbogbo axis, there was low turnout of voters as voters were slow to come out although there was security presence to forestall any trouble but no issues were recorded.

However, at Ogba axis, Lagosians turn out to vote massively, although there was no long queue, according to reports, they people came out one after the other exercise their franchise one after the other. The crowd was not particularly large but the people were out to vote, one after the other.

Dr. D.J Johnson of Nigerian Union of Journalists, advocates that every journalist should vote, security agencies should also vote. ‘‘I voted this morning and I can tell you what happens when we talk about voters’ apathy. People need to come and vote. Nigerians have attached too much ethnicity and religious bigotry into the campaigns. These things are enough to discourage people.’’

Mr. Fatai Adekunle who voted in Dopemu axis said that voting has been very peaceful in his area. He said he was not harassed and the process has been peaceful. Adekunle said, ‘‘the voters’ turn out is not impressive at all. He called on the Government to do something about it. The way things are going, the Lagos State Government and the Federal Government need to put in some reward system in place for voters in upcoming elections. They need to think outside the box because unlike the Presidential elections that people came out to vote in large numbers, the numbers have dropped in the governorship elections.’’ He said.

Mr Sesan Babatunde at oguntade ogba, ifako ijaye axis said, voting exercise in his area was peaceful and calm. The voters show up very early to vote at Ogba. He said, the people here arrive as early as 7.30. am.

The voting commenced by 8.30 exactly. However, Mr. Babatunde said, he was alarmed at the level by which the youths are on the streets of Lagos playing football. ‘‘At Coker Street, from beginning to the end of that street, the youth are busy playing football.  You will see women watching them playing football on the roads while voting was going on.’’

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu voted at his polling unit at Lagos Island, Eiyekole rd/street, ‘ward 1’ Sanwo-Olu and his wife, Ibijoke  Sanwo-Olu cast their votes in the elections amidst state media representatives and security operatives.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said, we have just witnessed my wife and I casting our votes and exercising our civic duties. We are happy at the turn out at this polling unit. You can see that, the INEC officials came right on time and voting is on as we speak. I think it’s time for us as a people to see and understand that this process is not supposed to be a process of violence. Elections that lead to the emergence of credible leaders is the best validation of what true democracy should be. I want to emphasize again that elections are for the peace, progress and prosperity of our state and our nation. I want you all, gentlemen of the press to continue to preach and encourage everyone to continue to participate in our electoral process. I am happy, driving here this morning that everywhere is peaceful and calm.’’

There are a few disturbing videos that we have seen of some party people doing one or two things but these videos are not veritable. I am not going to talk about it much. I want to say that I am very happy at the turnout here at this polling unit and I want to ask that all our voters should remain vigilant. If you see anything or see something please alight the security operatives. We don’t want any form of intimidation or violence in Lagos state. That is not acceptable.’’

Governor Sanwo-Olu also spoke in Yoruba language, saying that it was important that Lagos state democracy be peaceful and orderly. He expressed his thanks to Lagosians and the people of Lagos for taking the time to come out and vote.

The governor is seeking re-election for another four year term. He is being challenged by Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour of the Labour Party and Mr. Abdul-Azeez Adediran of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

The New Telegraph observed security operatives on the streets of Lagos but there was generally peace on the streets as most people remained calm.

Ooni inaugurates Brazil's National Orisa Day

WITH KING CHARLES

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has officially presented a Certificate of Yoruba Territory to Quilombola territory in Brazil, making the city, the first outside Africa to receive the title.

Quilombola territory in Brazil is the first place outside of Africa to earn the title after the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, officially presented it.


The highly regarded Yoruba king also gave a speech to Brazil's Federal House of Assembly on Tuesday to formally launch the nation's first-ever Orisa Day.


According to a statement from Ooni's media assistant, Moses Olafare, Ogunwusi spoke before the Brazilian Parliament at a special session for Isese practitioners commemorating the country's Orisa Day.


The Ooni claimed that by integrating cultures and promoting Yoruba culture throughout the diaspora, the royal visit aimed to close the gap between the Yoruba people and the rest of the world.


He claims that the Nigerian Royal Father and his entourage arrived in Bahia, Brazil, on Sunday and met with President Lula da Silva in Brasilia, Brazil, on Monday.


At the Quingoma neighbourhood of Lauro de Freitas, in the Salvador Metropolitan Area, the Ooni presented the title.


The delivery of the title of Yoruba territory, which would promote and protect the Yoruba history, culture, and language in the community, was hailed by the people of Quilombola.


"At the height of the slave trade in Africa, the Yoruba people were captured and forcibly taken from their home base in Nigeria. The Quilombola was credited with receiving and embracing them.


"Because the Quilombola have a long history dating back to the 17th century, the acknowledgment of Quilombola as Yoruba territory is another step in the quest for respect for African history.


"Right now, 1,200 hectares of land are inhabited by about 580 families.
The Palmares Foundation has designated Quingoma as a Quilombola region since 2013," the statement read.


Ni revealed that the Yoruba and Brazilian populations share a long and rich history that dates back to antiquity.


The efforts adopted, according to the royal father, would not only preserve history through cultural preservation, but they would also increase Brazilians' sense of kinship, which would encourage improvement in preserving Yoruba legacy across the globe.


The event, according to Ponies' statement, was highly personal for him because he is enthusiastic about preserving Yoruba culture and its ingrained values.


The Yoruba language and its culture will become more widely accepted as a result of this event.
Their faces show eagerness, as you can see.


According to Ooni, "Their Babalawos are well-versed in the Ifa doctrines and can perform the Odu-Ifa and its panegyrics like our Ifa priest do in Nigeria.


He claims that Brazilians highly value their gods like Sango, Ogun, Yemoja, and Obatala, and they have set aside days to honour them with vibrant celebrations that are full of aesthetic appeal.


"One thing I like about them is that they speak Yoruba, and it's important to unite them and demonstrate our sympathy with them by speaking Yoruba.


He continued, "This will promote positive bilateral trade between Brazil and Nigeria and it would also benefit Yoruba culture."

LASCOTA endorses Sanwo-Olu, Hamzat for Second Term

The Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans, LACOSTA, has thrown its weight behind the re-election of the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Olushola Sanwo -Olu, his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat and all APC candidates for the Lagos State House of Assembly, on March 11 gubernatorial and House of Assembly members.

This was contained in the speech delivered by the President of the association, Alhaji Nurudeen Buhari, at a press conference held at the Headquarters of the Association in Shogunle area of Lagos State.

According to him, "the entire members of Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans, LACOSTA, who without any iota of doubt are more than 6million members, have resolved to once again throw their weight behind the governor-friend of the masses,  Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, and other APC House of Assembly members in next Saturday's gubernatorial and House of Assembly elections..
Let's do it this as pay back time for the governor who has done virtually well for this great state since at the hlems of affairs of tbe state four years ago", Alhaji Buhari said.

He informed that the association would begin house to house sensitization and education of residents, just as he added that all members would further mobilize members and residents in the state the more on the why all hands must be on deck to enable the Governor come back again to his office for second term.

According to him " This resolution is necessary and crucial having considered series of physical evidence of development done the current administration in Lagos. On this note, I, as the President and my entire members would ensure we go extra mile to ensure Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Dr Obafemi Hamzat are elected back come March 11 Governorship and House of Assembly elections in Lagos State", Buhari said.

Nigerians lead Dubai property investors as market recovers

 

Yemi Olakitan


Despite the worldwide economic downturn, high-net-worth individuals, especially Nigerians, invested in Dubai, boosting the luxury market and setting a new record of 90,881 residential sales in 2022.


According to CBRE, the overall amount of transactions in Dubai reached 8,662 in December 2022, up 63% from the previous year.
Off-plan sales rose 92.5 percent and secondary sales 35.4 percent.


2022 smashed several residential market records in Dubai.
Almost 10,000 residential transactions exceeded the 2009 high.
In 2022, apartment and villa rents rose 27.1 percent and 24.9 percent, respectively, reaching historic highs.


In December 2022, average property prices jumped 9.5 percent and average apartment prices rose 9.0 percent, according to the data.
Average villa prices rose 12.8% throughout the same period.
Dubai's average apartment and villa prices were $318 and $377 per sqft in December 2022.


The average apartment and villa prices are 21.5 percent and 4.2 percent below the 2014 record highs.
Palm Jumeirah's villa sales rate per square foot is $1,067, whereas Jumeirah's apartment sales rate is $632.


Rents rose 26.9% in 2022. Average apartment and villa rents rose 27.1 and 24.9 percent, respectively. The Palm Jumeirah has the highest annual apartment and villa rents at $67,644 and $277,000, respectively.


Dubai's strong economic growth has driven demand for residential and commercial real estate, according to a JLL poll.


Foreign investment in real estate has grown due to the government's programmes and laws.
Dubai Land Department (2020) announced real estate sales above AED 257 billion.


Dubai's tax rules and reputation as a global business and tourist hub have also helped its real estate market.


The numbers show that Nigerians invest heavily in Dubai real estate.
Nigerian investors were fifth in the Dubai real estate market in 2018, with 1,092 deals worth AED 4.6 billion (roughly $1.25 billion), according to the Dubai Land Department (Dubai Land Department, 2018).
This shows that even though there were fewer transactions than in other countries, their value was still high.


Nigerians were the second-largest foreign buyers in Dubai's real estate market in 2019, with 1,824 deals totaling AED 7.2 billion (roughly $1.97 billion) (Dubai Land Department, 2019).
The volume and value of transactions increased significantly over the previous year.
These figures show that Nigerian real estate investment in Dubai is growing.


Dubai apartment sales drive the market.Villas and townhouses remain popular.
Location, price, and facilities might affect the appeal of city home styles. Most properties are multi-use and holiday rentals.


Real estate specialists, notably estate surveyors and valuers, claimed Nigerians are driven to the Dubai real estate market due to its security, stability for investment, and low property prices compared to other large cities.


Dr. Samson Agbato, Director, Faculty of Environmental Studies, Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Ogun State, said: “One aspect is the reputation of Dubai as a secure and reliable site for investment, which is particularly enticing to Nigerian investors who may be searching for a shelter for their wealth.


Dubai is a global business and tourist hub, offering many alternatives for Nigerian investors seeking a stable and growing city.


An estate surveyor and valuer, Agbato, also attributed Dubai's appeal to its low property prices compared to other large cities.
“This may make it cheaper for Nigerian purchasers to acquire property in Dubai, which leads to better returns on investment,” he said.


He said: “Dubai's solid economy, stable political climate, and cutting-edge infrastructure may attract wealthy Nigerians to real estate investments.
Dubai's status as a global commercial and tourist hub may also attract real estate investors.


The city's tax-free status and lack of foreign property ownership restrictions may attract wealthy Nigerians.
Dubai's real estate industry attracts international investors due to its high returns on investment and possibilities for capital gain.


Ademola Adetola, ACMV Secretary, said high-net-worth Nigerian investors are fleeing to Dubai due to the naira's depreciation.


The naira's fall makes Nigerian investors important.
He said informed investors seek to avoid portfolio and capital value losses.

"The city's real estate has continued to remain solid and steady, bucking global markets slowdown and recession trend," he said.
The current epidemic, rising taxes, cost of living problem, natural disasters, and Russia-Ukraine war have driven many citizens seeking protection for their families and businesses to travel to Dubai, the top destination for high-net-worth migrants.


Dubai's world-class education, healthcare, security, and property ownership make it appealing.
According to the UBS Bubble Index, the city gives investors one of the finest global values.


The city has benefited from increasing oil costs, which are driving worldwide inflation, and cash purchasers make up more over 70% property purchases, according to Better Homes data.


He added that the international character of the business caused property values and prices to soar in the city, yielding 6.5 percent average rental returns despite meltdowns in most other countries.


Emeka Okoronkwo, Principal Partner of Emeka Okoronkwo & Associates, remarked that established and stable structures attract economic investments. It determines expected returns.
The Dubai design was well thought out, and all funnels that will produce traffic to sustain and yield predicted returns in their real estate industry are effective.


They developed a globe tourism thrill centre with a supportive airline and visa system and time-share property ownership.
Since they appreciate, Nigerians invest a lot on them.
"It generates enough returns and affords them a lifestyle they can enjoy more easily than in Europe or America," he continued.