The European Union (EU) has called on Nigeria’s federal government and its agencies to ramp up efforts in enforcing the provisions of the National Disability Act, emphasizing that the act’s potential to transform the lives of persons with disabilities (PWDs) remains unrealized without robust implementation.
The appeal was made during a national dialogue held in Abuja to commemorate the International Day for Persons with Disabilities.
Organized by the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, the event, themed “Transformative Solutions to Disability-Inclusive Development in Nigeria,” was supported by the EU’s Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme.
Challenges of Exclusion
Speaking at the event, Guartier Mignot, representing the EU ambassador-designate, highlighted the systemic exclusion faced by PWDs in development planning, despite international commitments.
“PWDs are being left behind in development,” Mignot said.
“Although inclusion is affirmed in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, many interventions still fail to include people with disabilities.
Societal barriers continue to place them at increased risk of violence, poverty, poorer health outcomes, and limited access to education and employment opportunities.
This is not inevitable, and we must be deliberate about ensuring disability inclusion.”
Call for Collaborative Action
Ayuba Gufwan, executive secretary of the NCPWD, echoed these concerns and called for stronger partnerships between stakeholders.
He emphasized that disability inclusion must become central to Nigeria’s development agenda.
In a similar vein, Mohammed Isa, senior special adviser to President Tinubu on special needs and equal opportunities, urged policymakers, civil society organizations, and development partners to foster collaboration.
“An inclusive society is achievable, but it requires commitment and cooperation from all sectors of government and society,” Isa said.
A Long Road Ahead
Despite the National Disability Act’s promise to address discrimination and ensure access to public services, many PWDs in Nigeria continue to face systemic barriers.
With the EU’s backing, stakeholders at the dialogue called for measurable steps to address these challenges, including budgetary allocations, awareness campaigns, and capacity-building programs for implementing agencies.
As Nigeria progresses in its disability inclusion journey, all eyes are on the government to translate policy into action, ensuring that no one is left behind.