Lagos to introduce special vehicle number plates for persons with disabilities

The Lagos State Government has initiated plans to introduce special vehicle number plates for Persons with Disabilities, PWDs, as part of efforts to promote inclusion, improve accessibility and make movement easier across the state.

A statement by the Lagos state he government said the initiative is being championed by the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs, LASODA, in collaboration with the Lagos State Motor Vehicle Administration Agency, MVAA.

The move followed a courtesy visit by the management of LASODA to the MVAA, where both agencies discussed possible areas of collaboration on the development and implementation of a disability-friendly vehicle identification system.

Speaking during the meeting, the Permanent Secretary of the Motor Vehicle Administration Agency, Mr. Abdulrasheed Muri-Okunola, described the proposed number plates as a major step towards achieving the vision of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration of building “A Greater Lagos That Leaves No One Behind.”

He explained that the special number plates would improve recognition, accessibility and ease of movement for persons with disabilities across Lagos State.

“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.

Muri-Okunola also disclosed that discussions had already begun with the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, on the proposed special vehicle number plates for persons with disabilities in Lagos State.

He added that the agency would begin the necessary administrative procedures and continue working closely with LASODA to ensure the initiative is successfully implemented.

Earlier, the General Manager of LASODA, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, said the visit was aimed at starting strategic discussions on the introduction of special number plates designed to meet the needs of persons with disabilities in the state.

She explained that the initiative would cover all categories of persons with disabilities, as well as parents of children with disabilities and their caregivers, noting that the system would 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.

Oyetunde-Lawal further urged all stakeholders to embrace inclusion, stressing that creating an inclusive society requires collective effort.

“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, noting that it aligns with the provisions of the Lagos State Special People’s Law, LSSPL, which established LASODA to protect the rights of persons with disabilities, eliminate discrimination and promote equal opportunities.

They noted that the introduction of special vehicle number plates is expected to improve accessibility, visibility and the active participation of persons with disabilities across Lagos State.

The meeting ended with both agencies restating their commitment to the initiative. It was attended by directors and senior management staff of LASODA and the Motor Vehicle Administration Agency.