Lagos State Government Announces Initiatives For People With Vision And Hearing Loss

Lagos State Government Announces Initiatives For People With Vision And Hearing Loss....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The Lagos State Government has officially designated the third Saturday in September each year as a day to raise awareness for individuals with Usher Syndrome, a genetic disorder that leads to blindness and deafness. This declaration, made through the Office for Disability Affairs, is part of the state’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that “no one is left behind,” particularly those with disabilities…….CONTINUE READING 

During a meeting with individuals affected by Usher Syndrome at the agency’s office in Ikeja, Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, General Manager of the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs, highlighted that this rare genetic disorder impacts the sensory organs of sight, hearing, and balance, and currently has no known cure, though it is preventable.

Oyetunde-Lawal emphasized that the state government has consistently prioritized issues concerning people with disabilities, aligning with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ developmental agenda, which promotes inclusivity.

She noted that millions globally are affected by Usher Syndrome, with a higher incidence in developing regions like Africa and Asia due to widespread ignorance and a lack of genetic testing and counseling facilities. Oyetunde-Lawal stated that the lack of awareness and necessary resources has contributed to the rising prevalence of this condition, underscoring the need for prevention to mitigate its adverse effects on health, education, and overall well-being.

“The Usher Syndrome community advocates for the third Saturday in September to be recognized as an international day to raise awareness about this condition, aiming to eliminate its incidence and reduce the future prevalence of deafblindness worldwide,” she said.

Oyetunde-Lawal announced the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs’ recognition and full support for Global Usher Syndrome Awareness Day 2024, set for September 21, 2024. She affirmed the state’s commitment to this observance moving forward.

Segun Okelola, Executive Director of the Lion Heart Foundation, praised LASODA and the state government for being the first in Nigeria to recognize Usher Syndrome, calling the declaration a significant milestone in the fight against deafblindness.

In September of last year, the state government provided hearing aids to nine primary school pupils as part of its efforts to reduce hearing impairment among school children.