As we celebrate our 54th independence as a country, I am very sure that a lot of us do sincerely have dreams and hope for our beloved country. We have come a long way as a country however, there are areas our government have not done very well in, sectors they are yet to improve on and people yet to be reached. So what dreams do I have for my country?
I dream of a better Nigeria.- A more inclusive and accommodating country for persons living with any form of disability.
- One that supports caregivers.
- One that takes research seriously and makes it a priority.
- A country that respects human rights.
- A country with steady uninterrupted power supply.
- One with blurred lines between the rich and poor, tribes, and languages.
- One that allows the best qualified to get/do the job.
- A country that protects the girl child.
- A better justice system, one purged of bribery and corruption.
- A country rid of any form of pollution.
- A country with better functioning education system.
- A country that looks after Teachers, Doctors and Pensioners.
- A country that provides job opportunities for her citizenry.
- A country with better social infrastructure.
- One that supports and finance entrepreneurs.
- A country devoid of power abuse.
- A country free of terrorism.
- A country free from injustice and wickedness.
- A country with working railways and post offices.
- A country that protects her own both at home and abroad.........................................
The list goes on... and on... and ooooonnnnnn........... However, Let me revisit my number one dream on the list. Na that one be my major dream. YES!!! because......
The issues confronting the disable community (minority of course) in Nigeria is too much because we are one far more ostracised in the society. Daily life is already tough enough for the disabled. Our government don't just pay enough attention when it comes to persons living with disability. Our government don't have us in their budget. there are no plans on ground to look after severely disabled people and their families who happen to be sole carers. For those who have beaten the odds and struggled through school, can't find work simply because it is harder for the disabled to find work in this country.
The disabled in this country are more likely to live in abject poverty, and increasingly, are victims of hate crimes. There has been an increase in antagonism towards disabled people with at least two third reporting to have experienced recent abuse. PEOPLE, this dark mood is terrifying for people who struggle to access things the rest of you take for granted; not just jobs but we can't access Public Transport, Roads, Banks, Shopping Mall, Offices, Hospitals Schools and even to grab a meal in a restaurant to mention a few. "TherrisGodooo" Hmmm to be disabled no be beans ooo as it is damn too expensive. These and more reasons have driven some persons to the brink of suicide.
Our structures are not designed to accommodate us and the most painful aspect of it all is that NO ONE CARES. How sad!! wipes tears off my eyes. This wicked situation destroys our confidence and make us change our attitudes and behaviour. We have being ostracized in this country for far too long because to me, Ministers, Governors, Honorables, heads of departments etc. who are desperate to force through cuts in their budgets, have demonized disabled people with smears designed to give the impression that many disabled persons are not worth given a chance.
Isn't it sad that we are being robbed of our human right and freedom? It is even more annoying that new buildings, schools, churches, banks, ATMs, roads, hotels, business/company premises are not disable friendly..... Hmmm wait ooo and we are in the 21st century hehehehe...... NAIJA NAWA FOR US OOOO.
My people!! physical disability is not mental disability ooo it is not a plague, it is only a condition/situation that people live with and manage ooo. The fact that someone is disabled does not mean they are condemned or any less important.
HERE IS TO THE DISABLED!!!
Be the best you can in any way, wherever you find yourself. I know sometimes you may feel like you have something to prove, just be YOU..... Love you (I know it's difficult but try). Don't be angry and bitter because of the way you look rather, appreciate yourself, present yourself in a positive light, work on your attitude, pray always and don't forget to always wear your best accessory """SMILE"""
As we celebrate Nigeria at 54 please share this, lend your voice until Mr President sees this...... Until we see change....Until things improve.....
CONGRATULATIONS and LONG LIVE NIGERIA.....
Sharon xxx
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