Sunday, December 2, 2018 was International Day for Persons Living with Disabilities.

In Lagos, hundreds of such persons with one form of disability or the other gathered for a warm reception in an event that actually showcased their abilities rather than disabilities.

The event was put together by La Mode Magazine Disability Foundation.

Speaking cheerfully from his wheelchair, one of the participants who is a young millionaire importer of men and ladies wears and accessories, Stanley Nnoruga, said: “I am the CEO of my (multi-million naira) company. I’m married with a child. If I can, yes you can.”

Speaking further, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka graduate urged members of the public to always treat persons with disabilities with love.

“Remember to always show love and treat people with disabilities right. They fought death and conquered,” said Nnoruga.

Another participant said: “My name is Juliet Onyinyechi Ofodile. I am a person living with disability. I am able, yes I can.”

Sandra Odigie, CEO La Mode Magazine Disability Foundation said her organisation is proud to identify with persons living with disabilities in the country because she believes that disability, in whatever form, is not the end of life. She said that is why her organisation joins the rest of the world every year to celebrate these persons, many of who have turned out to be a huge success in their various fields of endeavour in spite of their disabilities.

“The world should look at the abilities of these persons rather than their disabilities,” Odigie said.