LASODA, MVAA COLLABORATE ON SPECIAL VEHICLE NUMBER PLATES FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

By: Balogun Ibrahim
The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has initiated discussions with the Lagos State Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA) on the introduction of specialised vehicle number plates for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Lagos State, as part of ongoing efforts to promote inclusion, accessibility and ease of mobility.
The engagement took place during a courtesy visit by the management of LASODA to the MVAA, where both agencies explored areas of collaboration on the development and implementation of a disability-friendly vehicle identification system.
Speaking during the meeting, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA), Mr. Abdulrasheed Muri-Okunola, described the initiative as a significant step towards achieving the vision of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to build “A Greater Lagos That Leaves No One Behind.”

He noted that the proposed specialised number plates would enhance recognition, accessibility and ease of movement for Persons with Disabilities across the State.
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“This is indeed a laudable initiative that aligns perfectly with the principles of inclusive governance. We are committed to supporting this process and are confident that the collaboration between our agencies will yield positive results,” he said.
Mr. Muri-Okunola disclosed that discussions had already commenced with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on the proposed specialised number plates for Persons with Disabilities in Lagos State.
He added that the Agency would commence the required administrative processes and continue to liaise closely with LASODA to drive the initiative to fruition.

Earlier, the General Manager of LASODA, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, said the visit was aimed at initiating strategic discussions on the introduction of specialised number plates that would cater to the needs of Persons with Disabilities in Lagos State.
She stressed that the initiative should be inclusive of all categories of Persons with Disabilities, as well as parents of children with disabilities and their caregivers, noting that such a system would significantly improve identification, accessibility and support for members of the disability community.
“Inclusion is not just a buzzword; it is a reality that must be reflected in every policy and system we put in place. Specialised number plates will not only aid identification but also reinforce our commitment to building a society where no one is left behind,” she said.

Mrs. Oyetunde-Lawal further urged all stakeholders to see themselves as agents of inclusion, emphasising that creating an inclusive society is a shared responsibility.
“Inclusion begins with you and me. Every one of us has a role to play in ensuring that persons with disabilities are recognised, respected and fully integrated into every aspect of society,” she added.
Both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to working together to advance the initiative, which aligns with the provisions of the Lagos State Special People’s Law (LSSPL) that established LASODA to safeguard the rights of Persons with Disabilities, eliminate discrimination and promote equal opportunities in all spheres of society. The introduction of specialised vehicle number plates is expected to further enhance accessibility, visibility and the full participation of Persons with Disabilities in Lagos State.
The highly interactive meeting concluded with both agencies reaffirming their commitment to advancing the initiative. It was attended by directors and senior management staff from the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) and the Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA).
