Access Bank Plc and the United States Consulate in Lagos have partnered with the NGO HACEY Health Initiative to celebrate the lives of people living with disability. The celebration is by way of an event tagged Persons With Disability (PWD) Heroes Gathering, holding today, December 16, at Access Bank Corporate Head Office in Victoria Island, Lagos.

In an invitation sent to News Express, Mr. Isaiah Owolabi, Project Director, HACEY Health Initiative, explained that the project is aimed at advancing the cause of persons with disability to lead a healthy and productive life. ‘This event provides a conducive platform for key stakeholders from the private sector, government agencies, civil society, donor organisations and grassroots organisation to celebrate the lives of people living with disability and call for renewed commitment to promote inclusiveness in our society,” he said.

According to him, “In line with the International Day of Persons With Disability (December 3rd) and the United Nations theme for this year – Inclusion Matters: access and empowerment for people of all abilities – a dialogue session has been incorporated into this event, and we believe that your voice will play a big role in shaping the outcome which includes a workable action plan to create a platform conducive for person with disability to live to their full potential.”

Mr. Owolabi disclosed that key activities during the event will include a Keynote Address from the United States Consul General and the release of ‘No Boundaries’, an inspiring documentary on how persons with disability have overcome challenges to become champions. He disclosed that other highlights would include the launching of ‘Needle’s Eye’, a story book on challenges and opportunities for persons with disability in Nigeria, as well as a dialogue session during which government, private sector and civil society would discuss the way forward for an inclusive Nigeria.

•Photo shows persons living with disability.