….Pushes for Appointment as Chairman of Ondo State Disability Agency to Champion Inclusive Development.
Mr. Abdulateef Ojo Busari, popularly known as AOB, has called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to appoint him as chairman of the Agency for the Welfare of People with Disabilities in Ondo State, stating that his life experience and advocacy work make him the right person to lead inclusive development for the community.
In an exclusive interview with NigeriaUpdates, the deaf advocate shared his journey and vision.
“I was born into the family of Alhaji and Alhaja Busari, from Korowa, Oka Akoko in Ondo State. I was born like any hearing person,” he began.
His life took a drastic turn during his early school years.
“When I was in Primary 4, something terrible happened. I lost my hearing in both ears. We went everywhere seeking a cure, but nothing worked. Eventually, I was admitted to a special school in Akure,” he said.
Communication became a defining part of his identity.
“The only challenge I faced was hearing loss. Sign language became my means of communication,” Busari explained.
Despite the odds, he pursued education relentlessly.
“After I finished secondary school, I decided I wanted to become somebody. That made me go further in education, and I was able to achieve my dream,” he said.
Busari holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) from Adeyemi College of Education, a Professional Diploma in Special Needs Education from the University of Lagos, and a Master’s in Education from Adekunle Ajasin University.
“It was my relatives and interactions with people with special needs that inspired me to study special needs education,” he noted.
“Throughout my educational journey, it was my parents who provided financial support.”
His desire to serve stems from a commitment to advocacy.
“I became an advocate to help people with special needs in the areas of empowerment and welfare,” he said.
During the last election, he coordinated support for Governor Aiyedatiwa from people living with disabilities.
“My role as Coordinator was to mobilise people with disabilities to support Aiyedatiwa’s election because he is very friendly to people with special needs,” Busari stated.
If appointed, Busari said he would prioritise employment, empowerment, and training.
“If I’m appointed as Chairman of the Agency, my primary focus will be to lobby for employment, empowerment, welfare, and training for people with disabilities in Ondo State,” he said.
“I’ll also work with NGOs and appoint coordinators in each local government to collect data and information on people with disabilities.”
He emphasised the need for international collaboration.
“I will work with international organisations and NGOs to provide seminars on how to improve the standard of living for people with disabilities.”
On social integration, Busari expressed hope for better awareness.
“There’s a need for social inclusion and relationships for people with disabilities that can bring change by drawing them closer to the community,” he said.
“Media must help push information on inclusivity that can get the attention of the government and NGOs to assist people with disabilities.”
Busari attributes his resilience to divine grace.
“Why I kept going is because everything is by Allah’s grace, who continues to provide our needs.”
He acknowledged the misconceptions around disability in Nigeria.
“In this country, there are many misunderstandings. Disability depends on individual character, behaviour, and maturity.”
His advice to young people with disabilities is clear.
“There are millions of people with disabilities in Nigeria and across the world. Being heard is by Allah’s will. My advice to youth is to go further in their education so they don’t waste time.”
On legacy, Busari was direct:
“I hope to leave a legacy of fighting for disability rights and social justice.”
He concluded with a direct message to the governor:
“I say directly to Governor Aiyedatiwa: appoint me as Chairman of the Agency to ensure service for people with disabilities in Ondo State.”
“If I am appointed, I will lay many projects in the dis
ability community to be remembered.”
