ABSTRACT
Even though “leave no one behind” (LNOB) is an unequivocal global commitment in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to eradicate poverty and combat discrimination, marginalisation, and inequality, it is widely acknowledged that people with disabilities (PWD) are often neglected in development plans and projects. In the spirit of LNOB, the principles of affirmation and inclusion demand that opportunities be provided for PWD to live full and independent lives as much as possible. This chapter examines how policies or assertions by international and national policy frameworks regarding disability impact PWD in Lagos, Nigeria. Through a combination of policy review and interviews with PWD and relevant care agencies, the chapter addresses the following questions: How is the LNOB commitment integrated into development policies and plans in Lagos as it relates to PWD? And how have the emergent reforms and public commitment of the Lagos State Government to LNOB led to real change for PWD? The chapter critically examines the LNOB notion, assessing how various rights and access opportunities are deployed and received by PWD. It makes the argument that while the policy framework may be fit for purpose, limited and ineffectual associated action does, in fact, leave PWD behind.
