Lafarge Africa Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusion and economic empowerment as it celebrated the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities with beneficiaries of its Disability-to-Ability (D2A) Programme in Lagos.
The event, held on Thursday, December 4, brought together participants of the ongoing D2A initiative delivered in partnership with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), and Guinness World Record holder and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya.
Themed “Ability Reimagined,” the D2A programme aims to equip 100 Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) with vocational and entrepreneurial skills that promote employability, business growth, and long-term self-reliance. Beneficiaries are receiving hands-on training in four areas: laptop and phone repairs; make-up and gele artistry; wig and braids making; and shoe and bag production.
To enhance accessibility, Lafarge implemented the programme across two hubs in Ikeja (Lagos West) and Ikorodu (Lagos East), ensuring broad participation across the state.
Speaking at the event, Director of Communications, Public Affairs & Sustainable Development at Lafarge Africa Plc, Viola Graham-Douglas, said the programme reflects the company’s broader mission of building stronger, more inclusive communities.
“This programme underscores our commitment to our communities. We don’t just produce building solutions; we build society, homes, and empower people to be the best they can be,” she said.
She added that the initiative goes beyond vocational training, integrating entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and mentorship sessions coordinated by LSETF so that participants are prepared to succeed either as business owners or skilled professionals.
In his remarks, Tunde Onakoya encouraged participants to embrace the opportunity, sharing his personal journey and how chess and continuous learning transformed his life. He urged beneficiaries to believe in themselves and use their skills to make meaningful contributions to society, commending Lafarge Africa for supporting persons with disabilities in practical, impactful ways.
Executive Secretary/CEO of LSETF, Mrs. Feyisayo Alayande, alongside other partners, participated in a speed mentoring session aimed at motivating and guiding the trainees.
Also speaking, General Manager of LASODA, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal—represented by Dr. Adekola Oluwafunmilayo—stressed that building an inclusive society requires joint effort. She praised the initiative for providing business registration support and starter kits, noting that such thoughtful interventions “truly transform lives.”
She added, “By supporting these beneficiaries at the start of their entrepreneurial journey, you are giving them confidence and clarity. We sincerely appreciate your commitment.”
With the D2A programme, Lafarge Africa continues to deepen its engagement with communities and strengthen opportunities for persons with disabilities in line with global standards for inclusion and sustainable development.
