Speaking at the West African Elders Forum on Advancing Democracy in the Region
Last week, I was privileged with the opportunity to speak on a panel at the West African Elders Forum, in Dakar, Senegal. The event was hosted by the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation. I with other panelists and past West African presidents spent two days discussing best ways to tackle the problems facing democratic progress in the West African region. I strongly believe that the best ways to solve our problems is to look within by applying our different peculiarities to the solutions we proffer. I have faith in the region and the resilience of our people. It was especially rewarding to see past presidents of Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and the ECOWAS Commission tell us about the lessons they learned during their leadership tenure. There’s a lot to be done in the region, and I feel blessed that I get to contribute, by amplifying the voice of persons at the grassroots to the conversations.
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Promoting Disability Rights: Reflections on Inclusion, Dignity, and Personal Growth
I met Crystal Chigbu in 2019 and she changed my life in the most beautiful ways. Knowing her, spending time with her, and learning from her led to my interest in Disability Rights conversations, thank you so much for the light you have brought to my life, @Crystal. Working in Human rights, I have always known how important each person is. I also understand how necessary it is for everyone to have equal access and opportunities. However, as I look back and reflect on the past year, I am humbled by all I have learned and the growth I have experienced.Like the UDHR will say, “every human is deserving of dignity and respect”. I have come to understand that we disrespect persons with disabilities and strip them of dignity when we do not provide access, remove barriers, and promote their inclusion in all spheres. Women with disabilities are even more vulnerable with the intersections of gender, disability and sometimes, poverty. We must do better to promote disability rights. I believe that begins by confronting our own biases.
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