In commemoration of the 2025 United Nations Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME) Day, Hope Builders for the Physically Challenged Foundation has organized a special event in Mushin, Lagos, to celebrate and empower entrepreneurs living with disabilities (PLWDs).
The event, held Friday 27th June, featured an exhibition and lectures highlighting the contributions of PWDs to Nigeria’s economy and advocating for a more inclusive society.
The founder of the Foundation, Dr. Christiana Kehinde Akinrinmade, emphasized the importance of recognizing the potential within people with disabilities and supporting their entrepreneurial pursuits.
“We are not here to celebrate limitations but strengths. We want the world to see that there is ability in disability,” she said.
“MSME Day gives us the opportunity to showcase our skills and contributions to national development,” Akinrinmade explained.
A former banker and now a visually impaired entrepreneur and trainer, Akinrinmade stressed that while the Foundation’s activities are largely self-funded, the need for support from government agencies and corporate bodies remains crucial. She noted that the quality of their products has improved significantly over time, and with better funding, many of their products could reach export standards.
“We’ve moved from selling liquid soap in table water bottles to using branded containers. Our production quality is improving, and so is our vision,” she added.
Dr. Akinrinmade, who designs and produces clothing despite her visual impairment, called for an end to societal discrimination and more inclusion in economic planning.
Stories of Resilience and Enterprise
Kehinde Adegboye, a blind entrepreneur, showcased her homemade potato chips and fresh vegetables. She recounted how she learned chip-making from a neighbor and how the absence of modern equipment like an oven drives up her production costs.
“I spend over N15,000 every time I produce. The cost of oil is high, and without an oven, the process is labor-intensive,” she said. “Despite the challenges, I sell my goods, but we need government support.”
She urged the government to organize regular exhibitions for PWDs, noting that public sensitization would help reduce stigma.
“People think patronizing us will make them disabled. That mindset must change. Disability is not contagious—we are clean, capable, and even employ able-bodied individuals.”
For Adegboye, one of the toughest hurdles remains mobility and market access. “I live in Ikorodu, and transporting goods to events like this is stressful. We need infrastructural and financial assistance to grow.”
The Artisan Who Refused to Beg
Another inspiring story came from Prince Bayo Oluwole Tiwon, a blind artisan who now makes leather bags. Tiwon, who lost his sight in 2016 due to a medical condition, said he chose not to beg but to learn a new skill through a training program facilitated by the Foundation.
“I was once a furniture maker before I became blind. I refused to be a liability, so I trained in leatherwork. Today, I make laptop bags, school bags, and soaps,” he said.
Despite his quality products, Tiwon lamented the lack of patronage and persistent discrimination.
“I sold soap today but not a single bag. People often overlook our work because of our condition. Government support as product off-takers would make a big difference.”
He recalled an unpleasant incident on public transport where a passenger disembarked simply because he was blind.
“It was humiliating, but others in the vehicle condemned the man. Blindness is not a disease. We are not asking for pity, just equal opportunities.”
Striving for Independence
Kola Olumide, who runs a soap and disinfectant factory in Ogun State, shared a message of perseverance.
“Being blind is not a reason to sit idle. We’re trying our best not to depend on others. I sold well today, and I thank God,” he said. Still, he pointed to deeper issues.
“Discrimination adds to our burden. Accepting our disability is hard enough. We shouldn’t have to battle stigma too.”
Olumide appealed for better infrastructure, particularly clear walkways and financial support.
“Traders block walkways with their goods, making movement difficult for us. Government grants or loans would go a long way in making life easier.”
Supporting Voices from the Community
Justice Funmi Asaolu, a supporter of the Foundation, attended the event and purchased products from all the entrepreneurs present. The Foundation also provided transportation support for exhibitors and participants, making it easier for PLWDs to attend.
Adigun Olawale, a beneficiary of the Foundation’s initiatives, expressed deep gratitude to Dr. Akinrinmade.
“She has done so much for us. From training to empowerment, she’s been consistent. May God bless her,” he said.
He also appealed for inclusiveness in future training programs, calling on the Foundation to include men in upcoming women-focused initiatives.
The organizers clarified that the training program was originally open to both genders, but sponsorship in recent years had focused more on women, prompting the shift. However, calls for gender balance are now being considered.
Calls for National Action
Dr. Motunrayo Meranda, another supporter, commended the resilience of the entrepreneurs and called on all sectors of society to support PLWDs.
“Small is mighty. MSMEs represent growth, dignity, and independence. Let us not romanticize the barriers. People living with disabilities are enterprising; they only need our support to reach their full potential,” she said.
She urged the government, private sector, religious bodies, and NGOs to actively invest in, mentor, and promote businesses owned by PWDs.
“Development is not charity—it is justice. Inclusion is not a favor, it is a right. Let’s unlock the talents that are already within these amazing individuals.”
“Don’t Be Silent”—Encouragement from the Podium
Engineer John Paul, another speaker at the event, echoed the call for societal change.
“This part of the world does not adequately support PLWDs, but we are getting there. In other countries, the support structure is robust—we can do the same,” he said.
He encouraged PLWDs not to allow society to define them.
“Your strength comes from within. Don’t keep silent. Speak up, stand out, and support one another.”
Agencies, Stakeholders Join the Movement
The event also featured presentations by representatives from the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Nigerian Association of Small Scale Industrialists, and Living Vine Mental Health Foundation. These organizations offered words of encouragement and pledged to do more in supporting entrepreneurs living with disabilities.
A Celebration of Strength, Not Sympathy
The 2025 MSME Day event organized by Hope Builders for the Physically Challenged Foundation wasn’t just a celebration—it was a strong statement. It highlighted the grit, skills, and creativity of PLWDs in Nigeria and served as a call to action for greater inclusivity and support.
With improved access to funding, infrastructure, training, and a societal shift in perception, PLWDs can continue to thrive—not just as survivors of disability but as drivers of innovation, productivity, and hope.