International Wheelchair Day: Egbewole honoured with Award
By Mustafa Abubakar
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has been honoured with an award in recognition of his commitment to inclusivity and support for persons with disabilities.
The award was presented to the Vice Chancellor during the 2026 International Wheelchair Day and Awards Presentation organised by the National Association of Persons with Physical Disability (NAPWPD) on February (March 28, 2026) at the Osun Deaf Centre, Osogbo.
The Vice Chancellor was represented at the event by the Ag. Director of Cyber Security of the University of Ilorin, Dr Lukman Abiodun Olawoyin, who received the award on his behalf.
Speaking on behalf of Prof. Egbewole, Dr Olawoyin expressed appreciation to the organisers for the honour bestowed on the University leadership, describing it as a recognition of the institution’s continuous efforts toward promoting inclusiveness, equal opportunities, and support for persons living with disabilities.
He noted that the University of Ilorin remains committed to policies and initiatives that encourage accessibility, inclusion, and participation of persons with disabilities in academic and social activities within the university community.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the National Association of Persons with Physical Disability (NAPWPD),….. said the award was presented to the Vice Chancellor in recognition of his leadership and contributions toward advancing the cause of persons with disabilities, particularly through institutional support and advocacy for inclusive development.
According to him, the honour was also meant to appreciate individuals and institutions that have demonstrated commitment to the welfare, empowerment, and social integration of persons with physical disabilities.
He explained that the programme formed part of activities marking the 2026 International Wheelchair Day celebration, themed “Unstoppable: Moving Forward Together,” which emphasises resilience, unity, and the collective responsibility of society in advancing the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.
The Chairman further called on government agencies, educational institutions, private organisations, and well-meaning individuals to strengthen support for disability inclusion through policies, accessible infrastructure, and empowerment initiatives that will enable persons with disabilities to contribute meaningfully to national development.
The event attracted stakeholders, disability rights advocates, community leaders, and members of the disability community, who gathered to celebrate International Wheelchair Day and recognise outstanding individuals and organisations championing the cause of disability advocacy and empowerment in Nigeria.
