Oluyemi Arolusola Michael, popularly addressed as “Yemi Michael,” is a man defined by resilience rather than his disability, and he is charting a course to redefine the perception and treatment of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria. Though he was not born with polio, Yemi was affected by it around the age of 4 or 5, after receiving an injection that resulted in the condition. He now walks with the aid of crutches, but his journey as a scholar, journalist, and disability advocate reveals the transformative power of education and the drive to challenge societal prejudices.
Currently pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in Mass Communication at the University of Lagos, Yemi Michael is no stranger to academic achievements. He holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in History and Diplomatic Studies from Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, where he graduated with Second-Class Upper Honours (2.1) in 2011. He later earned a Master of Arts (MA) in History and Strategic Studies from the University of Lagos in 2016. His passion for learning is driven by a belief that education equips individuals with the tools to deal with life’s challenges in a better way.
Reflecting on this, Yemi draws a comparison between an educated and uneducated entrepreneur, highlighting how knowledge shapes branding, business strategy, and personal growth. “Education gives us insight into addressing issues differently,” he says, emphasizing its role in fostering self-reliance and self-confidence.
Yemi’s early life was significantly marked by several challenges. His father, once financially stable, lost everything, leaving the family in dire need. A more unfortunate situation happened when Yemi’s mother passed away when he was 19, at a time when their family needed her support the most. These experiences left a lasting negative impact on Yemi, who struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts before coming to terms with his disability.
“It took me years to accept my reality,” Yemi admits, but it was through acceptance that he found peace. He began to view his disability not as a limitation, but as a reality that he could navigate and thrive in.
Yemi’s career in journalism began in a traditional setting, but his focus shifted when a colleague suggested he explore writing on people with similar experiences as a person with a disability. From that moment, Yemi began researching disability issues and eventually developed a deep passion for advocacy. His attitude evolved from a place of pity—both for himself and others—to one of empowerment.
He recounts a time when he would give money to fellow PWDs out of sympathy. Over time, he realized that he could contribute better to their lives by advocating for systemic change and providing practical resources for PWDs.
This realization led Yemi to the decision to start an online newspaper focused on disability reporting. His vision is ambitious: the platform aims to educate the public, advocate for PWD rights, and offer resources to empower individuals with disabilities. He envisions recruitment opportunities for both PWDs and able-bodied individuals, although the platform will prioritize hiring more PWDs to foster a more inclusive society.
Yemi’s message to fellow PWDs is clear: independence is possible. “PWDs have to learn to be independent and not resort to begging,” he asserts. He emphasizes that laziness often leads some to beg, but with the right mindset and opportunities, PWDs can support themselves and their families.
Yemi’s own experience speaks volumes. Despite financial struggles in his early career, he leveraged his writing skills to earn an income and has received support from friends and family who admire his determination to be self-sufficient.
When asked about government support for PWDs, Yemi acknowledges receiving financial assistance (two payments of 20,000 naira) but is critical of the short-term nature of these interventions. “PWDs do not need fish; they need to be taught how to fish,” he explains, advocating for sustainable empowerment over one-off financial relief.
He points to the lack of comprehensive planning and data collection as major barriers to effective government action. “How can you plan for the people you don’t know?” Yemi questions, noting that without accurate data on PWDs and the population, the government cannot adequately provide for their needs. He commends Oyo State for its proactive approach in setting up the Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities (OYSAPD) following the signing of the Disability Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act into law in 2019, a federal law aimed at promoting the rights and needs of PWDs. Lagos State has established Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) and has done reasonably well. On the other hand, Ogun State has not established a disability commission.
Yemi’s frustration is palpable when discussing the government’s approach to disability issues. He believes that policymakers often view PWDs with sympathy rather than empathy, offering temporary relief rather than long-term solutions. For Yemi, real change will come when PWDs are empowered to be self-reliant and productive members of society.
Despite the challenges ahead, Yemi is determined to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of PWDs in Nigeria. “God gave me a good brain as compensation for my disability,” he says with conviction. He is using that gift to leave a legacy—one that empowers PWDs to realize their potential and reject the notion that disability is an inability.
Through his online newspaper and advocacy efforts, Yemi hopes to change the narrative around disability in Nigeria. His goal is to shift public perception away from seeing PWDs as objects of pity and toward recognizing their capabilities and contributions.
Yemi also dedicates his time to training others in public speaking and writing, emphasizing a team-oriented approach. “I don’t say people work for me, I say they work with me,” he explains, highlighting his belief in collaboration and shared responsibility.
Yemi’s story is not just a personal triumph but also a call to action for society at large. His journey from self-doubt to self-empowerment serves as a good example for PWDs across Nigeria. His message is simple yet profound: disability is not the end of the road, and with the right mindset and opportunities, PWDs can contribute meaningfully to their communities and the country as a whole.
Through his advocacy, Yemi aims to foster a culture of empathy, independence, and respect for PWDs, one that moves beyond temporary relief to creating long-lasting opportunities for all.
This article was written by Deborah Enesi, MSc Student of Mass Communication (2023/2024), University of Lagos, following the training on Disability Reporting facilitated by Blessing Oladunjoye, Publisher of BONews Service.