Sandra Odige , is very passionate about disability awareness and empowerment. She expressed her gratitude towards the recently signed disability bill, in her words ” I am indeed grateful for the signed bill for persons with disabilities.This bill will further boost the confidence level of persons with disabilities and reduce all forms of discrimination faced by these persons . Over the years, I have used my magazine La Mode Magazine to advocate for persons with disabilities,being a voice makes me fulfilled.To further drive home my message on disability awareness and empowerment. Hence, the establishment of the La Mode Magazine Foundation. The foundation is focused on awareness, Job recruitment , free trainings and skills acquisition trainings to empower persons with disabilities as they too can add significant value in the society. Will continue to use my platforms to advocates for persons with disabilities”.
The signed disability bill; Prohibits all forms of discrimination on ground of disability and imposes fine of N1, 000, 000 for corporate bodies and N100, 000 for individuals or a term of six months imprisonment for violation. Provides for a five-year transitional period within which public buildings, structures or automobile are to be modified to be accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities, including those on wheelchairs. “Before erecting any public structure, its plan shall be scrutinized by the relevant authority to ensure that the plan conforms with the building code. A government or government agency, body or individual responsible for the approval of building plans shall not approve the plan of a public building if the plan does not make provision for accessibility facilities in line with the building code. “An officer who approves or directs the approval of a building plan that contravenes the building code, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine of at least N1, 000, 000 or a term of imprisonment of two years or both.” Discrimination is prohibited in public transportation facilities and service providers are to make provision for the physically, visually and hearing impaired and all persons howsoever challenged. This applies to Seaports, Railways and Airport facilities. The rights and privileges include education, healthcare, priority in accommodation and emergencies. All public organisations are to reserve at least 5 percent of employment opportunities for these persons.