It is with great honor that I extend my heartfelt goodwill message to the Nigerian Bar Association – Lawyers with Disabilities Forum (NBA-LWDF) on the occasion of the Zonal Stakeholders’ Summit on Disability Inclusion in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The theme of this summit, “The Criminality of Disability Discrimination: Assessing the Readiness of Law Enforcement and Key Stakeholders,” is both timely and essential. Ensuring the dignity and rights of all individuals, regardless of ability, requires not just strong policies but also effective enforcement and accountability. This conversation must move beyond advocacy to tangible legal protections that guarantee inclusion and justice for persons with disabilities.
I commend the unwavering commitment of the NBA-LWDF leadership, under the able chairmanship of Patience N. Etumudon, in driving this critical agenda. My sincere appreciation also goes to the Borno State Government, the Nigerian Bar Association, and all distinguished speakers and stakeholders, including Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, CON, MNI; Hon. Justice Kashim Zannah; Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN; Hauwa Abubakar; and Sen. Shehu Kaka Lawan, SAN, for their dedication to fostering a more inclusive society.
As we engage in these discussions, I urge all stakeholders to take concrete steps toward strengthening the legal framework and institutional mechanisms that protect the rights of persons with disabilities. Let this summit serve as a catalyst for lasting change, reaffirming that justice and equal opportunities must be accessible to all.
Wishing you all a successful and impactful summit.
Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe, SAN
Former Chairman, NBA Lagos Branch.
