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Apapa LG Boss, Stakeholders Empower Women With Disabilities, Urge Self-Determination
Women living with disabilities have been advised to reject entitlement syndrome and self-pity, instead focusing on self-empowerment and determination to achieve their goals.
This call was made by Chief Mrs. Chinwe Ezenwa, Chief Executive Officer of Lelook Bags; Hajia Bola Muse, President of Bomarah Foundation; and Hon. Idowu Adejumoke Sebanjo, Chairman of Apapa Local Government, during an event held in celebration of the International Women’s Day (IWD) in Apapa, Lagos.
The event, themed “Accelerate Action Against All Odds,” was organized by Bomarah Foundation in partnership with Chanelle Foundation. It featured empowerment initiatives such as the donation of grinding machines, Point of Sale (POS) machines, free business name registrations with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) for POS beneficiaries, and the distribution of wrappers and bags of rice.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Ezenwa, who was the mother of the day, cautioned against entitlement mentality among women with disabilities. She emphasized that their condition did not entitle them to special treatment, urging them to develop self-belief and avoid seeking pity.
“I have a warning for people with disabilities. Your biggest problem is entitlement syndrome. You think because you are living with a disability, you are entitled to the whole world. It’s a lie. It is not the fault of anyone that you are who you are,” she stated.
Ezenwa shared an inspiring story of a woman with one hand who emerged as the best graduating student at the Lelook Academy in Abuja.
“She told me, ‘Mummy, allow me, I am going to sew this bag, I want to do this work with one hand,’ and I allowed her. She was the best because she challenged herself and focused on her goal,” she recounted.
Similarly, Hon. Sebanjo encouraged women with disabilities to use their limitations as tools for self-empowerment, stressing that self-pity would only hinder their progress.
“When you are not looking for pity and you are ready to work, you will earn respect. But when you expect people to pity you, you will not get any respect. The minute you gain respect, there’s no limit to what you can achieve,” she said.
She further urged the women to work together and avoid creating barriers for themselves, adding that determination and resilience would attract more support and opportunities.
In her welcome address, Hajia Bola Muse acknowledged the resilience of women with disabilities, pledging continued support for their empowerment.
“Your determination to succeed despite obstacles is a testament to your unwavering spirit. We celebrate you, we honor you, and we are committed to supporting you,” she affirmed.
Also speaking, the President of Chanelle Foundation, Dr. Anire Okogun, noted that women with disabilities often face discrimination and societal neglect. She emphasized the need for greater recognition and support for their contributions.
“We must try to eliminate any form of violence against women, whether disabled or able-bodied. We must ensure that they are cared for and have effective participation in leadership wherever they are,” she concluded.
The event reinforced the importance of self-empowerment, resilience, and inclusivity, inspiring women with disabilities to break barriers and achieve success against all odds.