The Ekiti State Government has re-affirmed its dedication to enhancing the health and well-being of individuals with disabilities. This commitment was highlighted by Mrs. Olawumi Famuyiwa, the Director-General of the Bureau of Civic Orientation and Citizenship (BCOC), during a seminar titled “Family Life: Sex, Marriage & Self-Dignity and Sexual Promiscuity .” The event took place at the Ekiti State Skill Acquisition Center for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) and was organized by the Office of the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion.
The seminar was part of the Mental Health Programme for Women With Disabilities (WWDs), themed “Empowering Women With Disabilities: Breaking Barriers in Mental Health Care.” The initiative aims to address the unique challenges faced by women with disabilities in accessing mental health resources and support.
In her presentation, Mrs. Famuyiwa emphasized the vital importance of self-dignity and healthy relationships. She stressed that awareness of one’s rights and responsibilities within family life is crucial for personal empowerment and mental well-being.
Discussing the intersection of mental health and promiscuity, Mrs. Famuyiwa noted that while not all individuals with mental health conditions exhibit promiscuous behavior, there is a clear link between certain disorders and risky or compulsive sexual behavior. She highlighted the necessity of addressing both mental health and sexual health concerns to promote overall well-being and mitigate potential harm. She encouraged participants to embrace hard work, reciting the Yoruba poem, “ISE L’OGUN ISE,” to reinforce her message.
The Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Mrs Adetoun Agboola expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of attendees, noting that such initiatives are essential in creating a supportive framework for women with disabilities in Ekiti State.
She acknowledged the diverse stakeholders present including health professionals, educators, and community leaders who engaged in dynamic discussions focused on enhancing mental health services for this demographic and dismantling societal barriers.
In her welcome address, Mrs. Olabisi Fatoba, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Rehabilitation and Mental Health, underscored the program’s significance for women with disabilities, describing it as unprecedented. She affirmed that the Office of Special Education and Social Inclusion recognizes the need for women with disabilities to receive the same level of general health care as their counterparts without disabilities.
Mrs. Fatoba highlighted that the initiative aims to create a safe and supportive environment where women with disabilities can access professional mental health services, connect with peers, build resilience, reduce stigma, and improve access to care. The program, which attracted participants from all 16 local government areas of the State, includes seminars on family life, mental health assessments, counseling, therapy, advocacy, and more.
She expressed heartfelt appreciation to His Excellency, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, a PWD-friendly governor, for endorsing this program and demonstrating a genuine passion for supporting the less privileged in the State. Mrs. Fatoba emphasized that this government is the first to provide comprehensive care and support for women with disabilities in mental health, ensuring equitable, inclusive, and responsive services to promote their overall well-being and productivity.
