The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering inclusive development and social integration for the estimated 35 million persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria.
This pledge was made at a press conference and walk held on Monday in Abuja to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, celebrated annually on December 3rd. The event, themed “Transformative Solutions for Disability-Inclusive Development in Nigeria,” highlighted the need for coordinated efforts to promote equality and dignity for PWDs.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Ayuba Gufwan, outlined the Commission’s vision to fully implement the Disabilities Act and its five-year strategic plan (2022–2027). He emphasized the importance of a national disability inclusion framework that will enable Nigeria to achieve the Act’s objectives.
Gufwan stated that the Commission’s plan is anchored on key areas, including strengthening governance, developing a comprehensive national disability database, enforcing accessibility in physical and digital infrastructure, and providing assistive devices and technology. He also emphasized the importance of equal employment opportunities and resisting exclusionary practices that hinder the participation of PWDs in society.
The Commission reiterated its commitment to driving positive change, urging stakeholders across sectors to collaborate in ensuring an inclusive society where PWDs can thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development.
At the event, Halimat Adenike, founder of the Adenike Foundation, shared her foundation’s efforts to support PWDs. She revealed that 100 scholarships had been provided to out-of-school children with disabilities and 50 university scholarships this year.
The event served as a rallying call for government agencies, civil society, and private stakeholders to work collectively toward creating a society where no one is left behind.