*Deaf Community Reaffirms Support for Governor Seyi Makinde’s 3.0 Agenda*

The Deaf community in Oyo State has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde as discussions around the Governor’s 3.0 agenda continue to gather momentum.

At a meeting held yesterday with members of the Deaf community, the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Disability Matters, Hon. Timothy Olufemi, was present to engage with the association and listen to their perspectives on issues affecting the Deaf community as well as their contributions toward inclusive governance in the state.

During the meeting, the leadership of the Deaf community openly declared their support for Governor Seyi Makinde in the forthcoming election, noting that the Governor’s administration has demonstrated a genuine commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.

The association particularly acknowledged the efforts of Governor Seyi Makinde in creating employment opportunities and ensuring that persons with disabilities are not left behind in the development of Oyo State.

The meeting also provided an avenue for members of the Deaf community to respectfully present some of their aspirations and areas where they hope to see further support from the government. Among these were the desire to have one or two members of the Deaf community employed within the Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities (OYSAPD) to enhance representation, as well as the need for more empowerment opportunities for unemployed members of the community.

They also expressed interest in having a permanent office space for the association to serve as a meeting point and operational base. In addition, members sought clarification on the transition process within the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), particularly regarding the handover from previous executives to the newly appointed leadership.

The community also made inquiries about plans for the celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities by the Agency and the possible benefits members of the Deaf community could expect from the event. Furthermore, a request was made for consideration of pilgrimage sponsorship opportunities for interested members of the community to Mecca or Jerusalem.

In response, Hon. Timothy Olufemi carefully addressed the issues raised and assured members that their concerns and aspirations had been noted, reaffirming the government’s commitment to continued dialogue and the advancement of the welfare of persons with disabilities in the state.

The community also expressed deep appreciation to the Director-General of the Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities (OYSAPD), Barrister Ayodele Adekambi, for his continuous advocacy and policies that promote the welfare and inclusion of persons with disabilities across the state.

Furthermore, members commended Hon. Timothy Olufemi, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Disability Matters, for his consistent engagement with the Deaf community and for serving as a strong voice for disability inclusion within the government.

Members of the association emphasized that the current administration has given them a sense of belonging and recognition in governance, which has strengthened their confidence in the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde.

They concluded by reiterating their collective commitment to supporting the Governor’s vision for a more inclusive, progressive, and people-centered Oyo State.