The Christ’s Outreach on Disabilities (CODISA) Foundation has commended the Lagos State Government for the progress made so far in its disability policies, while also stressing the need for improved implementation. The Foundation urged society at large to combat stigma, and to promote awareness and inclusion.
The Head of CODISA Foundation, Prince Olaoluwa Awojoodu, gave the commendation at the launch of a nationwide fundraising campaign aimed at raising at least N500 million in support of People with Disabilities (PWDs) across Nigeria.
Originally established 41 years ago as a compassionate outreach under the Chapel of the Healing Cross, the Foundation has since transitioned into a fully registered Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), amplifying its mission to increase awareness and garner support from philanthropists, government institutions, and corporate bodies.
CODISA currently supports 42 homes and institutions dedicated to serving persons with disabilities. Notable achievements include the establishment of the Spinal Cord Injury Association of Nigeria (SCIAN). The funds raised will be channelled into promoting education, healthcare, and economic empowerment programmes to better address the challenges faced by PWDs.
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Awojoodu, while urging society to combat stigma and promote awareness and inclusion, noted that it is not a crime to have a child with special needs, asserting that these individuals deserve education, employment, and opportunities to thrive, thereby ensuring a better society.
“It is not a crime to have a child with special needs. These individuals deserve education, employment, and opportunities to thrive. Through increased awareness and education, we hope Nigeria will move toward greater inclusion,” he said.
Highlighting the significance of the Foundation’s new status, Prince Awojoodu stated that the organisation had, for 40 years, operated within the confines of a church body, only legally registering as an NGO a year ago. This change, he said, had enabled it to extend its reach and impact.
“For 40 years, we operated within the confines of a church organisation. A year ago, we legally registered the CODISA Foundation as an NGO, allowing us to extend our reach and impact.
“Today, we celebrate this milestone while continuing our long-standing mission to support people with disabilities,” Awojoodu stated.
Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOT), CODISA Foundation, Tokunbo Martins, expressed gratitude to attendees and emphasised the collective impact of their support.
“Your presence here reflects our shared commitment to transforming lives and strengthening our community. CODISA has touched countless lives over the years, fostering progress and creating opportunities for people with disabilities,” Martins said.
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