SENATE RESOLUTIONS ON 5 YEARS POST-COVID INTERVENTION FOR NIGERIANS WITH DISABILITIES APPROPRIATE AND TIMELY

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April 9, 2019

by: QueenEsther Iroanusi

President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday signed into law, the Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act.

The bill which has lingered in the National Assembly for 18 years, seeks to criminalise discrimination against persons with disabilities.

This bill was passed by the 8th Senate on March 28, 2018. In December, it was transmitted to the president for assent for the 4th time since 1999.

According to Ita Enang, the president’s National Assembly liaison officer, who announced the assent on Wednesday night, the new bill would see corporate entities and individuals face sanctions if found guilty of discriminating against persons with impairments.

The signing of the bill however, comes days after the president and his deputy claimed the executive is yet to receive the bill.

It also comes days after Mr Buhari accused lawmakers of not passing the bill during a town hall appearance with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.

But lawmakers rejected the claim, saying they passed the law since 2018 and submitted it to the president for assent.

A document later circulated on social media showing that the State House acknowledged receipt of the bill.

The law brought a major relief to anti-defamation campaigners, who accused the Nigerian government of not doing enough to protect citizens with disabilities.

Ten things to know about bill

1. The Act prohibits all forms of discrimination against persons with disability. If an individual is found violating this law, he/she will pay a fine of N100,000 or a term of six months imprisonment. The law imposes a fine of one million naira on corporate bodies.

2. Discrimination against such persons is prohibited in public transportation facilities and service providers are to make provision for the physically, visually and hearing impaired and all persons howsoever challenged. This applies to seaports, railways and airport facilities.

3. The rights and privileges of persons with disability include education, health care, priority in accommodation and emergencies.

4. All public organisations are to reserve at least five per cent of employment opportunities for these persons.

5. The Act gives citizens with disabilities the right to file a lawsuit for damage against any defaulter.

6. It provides for a five-year transitional period within which public buildings, structures or automobile are to be modified to be accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities, including those on wheelchairs.

7. Before a public structure is constructed, its plans shall be inspected by relevant authorities to ensure that the plan conforms with the building code.

8. A government or government agency, body or individual responsible for the approval of building plans shall not approve the plan of a public building if the plan does not make provision for accessibility facilities in line with the building code.

9. An officer who approves or directs the approval of a building plan that contravenes the building code, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine of at least N1,000,000 or a term of imprisonment of two years or both.

10. In Section 31 of the Act, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities will be established and an Executive Secretary will be appointed as the head of the commission.

MARRYING A PERSON WITH DISABILITY: PUBLIC PERCEPTION

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April 7, 2019

Living with disability should be full of fun and excitement in spite of its challenges because of the uniqueness of it but the stigma that arise which implies that disability is seen as a failure has rob off this fun to become agony and depression. Persons living with disabilities are faced with so many challenges but the one that is disheartening is the denial of healthy relationship and marriage. The public most at times think that persons with disabilities have little or no life socially. For this reason, the society have continuously denied or refused persons with disabilities each time they make move in terms of relationship or marriage. In this write up, I will share with you some of the experiences that persons with disabilities have faced in the quest of seeking for relationship and marriage.

A good number of able bodied men and women have married persons with disabilities and some has attempted to marry persons with disabilities but it has been tasking thus marrying a person with disability is viewed as a gateway to suffering and overburdened.

In my careful findings of the public assumption through comprehensive interaction with persons with disabilities and able bodied persons who married persons with disabilities. My findings are as follows:

A curse and hereditary: there are some quarters of the society who still believe that disability is as a result of the sin one committed in his or her former life. For the fear that this curse will be passed to their son or daughter and their prospective children could appear the same. In another vein, some think disability is hereditary therefore the affected people will most likely produce upspring with the same problem.
Failure: It is a known fact that persons with disabilities are the poorest of the poor within the society. They have limited opportunities to survive. Based on the above fact, the society first impression about a person with disability is that he or she is a poor person that need alms at all times. Therefore, parents are of the view that if it is a man, he will not be able to take care of their daughter and it is a woman, it will be a burden to their son.
A live-in maid: Going by the understanding that a person with disability can’t do anything for him or herself is another serious angle that the public have viewed as a difficulty in marrying a person with disability. There is a belief that a grief predicament awaits anybody that wishes to marry a person with disability because you will do virtually everything for him or her. For example, I have been asked by a lady if somebody is bathing me. To her, it is too bad to the extent that I need someone before I can bath and put on my clothes.
Lack of social life: Persons with disabilities when seen in any social gathering are viewed as if they ought not to be there. This has psychologically affected persons with disabilities to the extent that they viewed themselves as not being a part of society socially. This has developed low self-esteem to a good number of persons with disabilities and subsequently become anti-social. Then the persons are viewing them that way which as such lead to the refusal of getting into relationship or marriage with them. They are seen as being too aggressive and too isolative. This has been a great undoing to the choice of a person with disabilities as a life partner.
Sexuality: This is one area that has posed serious challenges for marrying a person with disability. Persons with disabilities are perceived inactive when it comes to sexuality. This is a general belief that persons with disabilities are not to indulge in sexual activities, if when they do, how could they satisfy the sexual drive of their partner? These are some concerns that the public normally raise that discredit the persons with disabilities. Most at times, they wonder how a woman with paraplegic would be able to carry pregnancy. This also is a serious concern that parents normally put forward to refuse marriage with a woman with disability.
Scandal: This is the last on the list of my findings but when all other reason has been subdued and proven not so serious a reason to call off a marriage. This is the one that parents would always have at the back of their mind and hawk on their refusal to sanction the marriage. It is simply that thought of what would persons (my friends) be saying or thinking about me if I should allow my daughter or my son to get married to such a person. We are living in a society where it seems we are at competition with each other. Everybody wanting the best for his or her family therefore no one want to identify with anything or action that will ridicule the name of his family. We all want to identify with what seems at the best within the society. We all have the attitude of bragging with our recorded successes. Therefore because majority still has this mindset, it has always been tug of war accepting marriage proposal from persons with disabilities. People with disabilities are viewed as second class citizens because poverty dwells more among them and little or no chances of being successful due to obvious limited opportunities.

These are my findings on what have been truncating marriages between abled bodied persons and persons with disabilities. There could be more to these or you may not agree with my findings or you may have a real-life experience relating to this to share with us. Please write us on: qualitativemagazine@yahoo.com, we will publish your comments as we wish to extensively address this issue because it is an integral part of life that persons with disabilities should not be discriminated upon.

The Physically Challenged and the Challenge of Insecurity in Nigeria: A Prolepsis of Trepidation

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April 7, 2019

It is no longer a secret that security has become a major challenge in this country. It is also not news that many people have suffered a lot as a result of the onslaught of enemies against the good people of this country. In a time when we are bemoaning the number of people with disabilities, many have been subjected to the same fate of losing their limbs in a bid to get rid of criminals and terrorists. This is why i choose to bring it up this time.

Unfortunately, there is no regular data for Nigerians with disabilities especially in crisis times like this. What is common is number of death, not number of casualties. And in cases where a loose number is given one may not be able to tell which is lost of hand, and which is lost of leg.

History of insecurity in Nigeria is traceable to colonial era when the Europeans sometimes used force to drive their points home. Many of the people began to live in fear. Fear of the Whiteman trigger, especially as he has gotten to know that the metal inside the gun is responsible for some death. The natives could not again give their opinion, more so, when they know that what they are about to say is contrary to what is been expected. Prior to independence, there were religious riots and what have you. After independence, election crises heightened the trepidation in following years. This state of uncertainty came to a climax in ’66. The coup succeeded in pitching one part of the country against the other, and more havoc was still to come. The war between Nigeria and Biafra is a well known story. But what happened after the war?

Armed robbery assumed a frightening dimension in the ‘70’s after the war years. Many commentators argued that with lots of arms in the hand of free citizens after the war, the temptation to take to crime was more. The ‘80’s was a crucial period in the history of armed robbery in Nigeria. The military decree of shooting armed robbers at stake did little to improve the system. Indeed a lot of people suffered untold hardship in the hands of these dare devil criminals. Many on wheel chair, crutches or with any form of body disfigurement is traceable to the activities of armed robbers.

Inter ethnic crisis brought its own gross disadvantages to add to the already critical condition of the people with disabilities in the country. In Delta state, Taraba, Benue, Kaduna, Plateau, Lagos, Oyo, Osun, Akwa Ibom, Enugu, Ebonyi, Cross River etc ethnic issues, herdmen/farmers crash and land tussles have produced not a small number of people living with disabilities. One cruel thing about inter or intra ethnic rivalry is that the use of crude implements in warfare has a sinister means of causing more havoc than intended. Imagine using cutlass, garden fork, hammer etc in the conflict. Practically, the use of such weapons demands force in other to create desired impact in the victim, and in most cases, the result becomes overbearing. But in the use of sophisticated weapons like Ak47, AK49, bazooka, etc minimal force is applied, and the aggressor may not care much if the victim is felled; in fact he doesn’t chase after the victim, the weapon in his arm does the chasing, and the target can’t escape unhurt. So, the point is, inter ethnic situations is not to any body’s advantage as it creates more problems than solutions.

The case of Plateau is very touchy. Since 2000, that once upon a time peaceful state was attacked and ravaged by violent men, the situation has continued to reoccur. Many today are limbless in some part of the country as a result of such crises. The same Benue state, Taraba and many other states both in the North central and the North east regions of Nigeria. Sometimes one is tempted to think that it is even better to die than to live with some parts of your body missing. The agony and trauma associated to such experience is better imagined and experienced. Yet we have our loved ones in such critical conditions all over the country. Many have been abandoned in the hospitals, others are allowed to roam the street to beg for arms, and many have died on the road side due to lack of care. The ills of violence is enormous, the reason we are bold to stand up against it.

The emergence of Boko Haram and recently farmers/herdsmen crisis have left many eyes with tears. The lamentation that greeted this violence is still reverberating in many homes today. Monetary compensation is not enough, neither will the head of the perpetrators on a platter assuage the pains and grant instant recovery from limblessness, but we are careful to say, may it not continue to happen!

Now that the did is done, how do we cope with the challenges that the occasion brought? The humanitarian crisis as a result the security challenges in the country is untold. Most times, we only note those with bodily injury, whose limbs are off or tortured. What about those whose heart stopped working at the sound of the bomb last? What about those whose ears were stopped by the sound of the missiles? Do we talk about the pregnant women who went to premature labour at such times? What about those who out of panic went into insanity? Do we talk about the destruction of houses and properties, the impromptu asunder that this temporary evil condition put between couples. Many wives have been left lonely in these dark months of the insurgence, not because their spouse are dead, but because they are married to military men who must go out to wrestle the soul of the country from these merchants of death.

Physical disability is not a birth right of anyone. Anybody can stumble into this status especially with the prevalence of insecurity in the world. The more reason every hand needs to be on deck to checkmate this monster. Again, those who are “temporarily able bodied” should find more reason to aid those who are so challenged. We must condemn the practice of jungle justice in some part of the country. A situation where one is not trailed in a court of competent jurisdiction and is sentenced by the discordant tune of mixed crowd is unacceptable. Street and gutter court rooms should be frowned at. This means that our police and other security agencies should be more proactive. Indeed, this kind of savage arrangement has left many people disfigured all through the country. In the recent past, The Sharia system of northern Nigeria left many limbless; the Bakassi gang up in eastern Nigeria became a cult susceptible to the whims and caprices of rich politicians to frame up and witch hunt their perceived enemies. The OPC in western Nigeria ran afoul of logic and civility, as many of their practices and judgments indicates the flight of reason in the group. The existence of these groups has equally added to the number of the people with disabilities in the country. Therefore one must call for restraint in their activities. It is in line with this that we call on the government of the day to take a proactive action to addressing the trend because the consequences is having much toll in the nation.

We cannot adjudge ourselves to be free citizens while we live in fear. Anything that cushions fear into bona fide citizens of this country should be ostracized with immediate effect. Fear on its own has equally contributed to the increase in number of people with disabilities. The Lagos Ikeja bomb blast years ago left a sour taste in the mouth of many. Some legs were broken, some hands were twisted, hairs were singed, flesh roasted not only because they were hit by any missile, but also because they couldn’t control their emotion at an emergency situation. Fire disasters usually have side stories to compliment its tale of woes. These tales are of those who allowed their “hearts to jump into their mouth”, the result is usually fatal. Some could even jump from high risings, and later find themselves as perpetual users of wheel chair; that is if they survive it. Now something must be done to raise the consciousness of Nigerians on how to respond to cases of this kind when it comes. I use this opportunity to call on NEMA, NOA and all other like agencies to pool resources together to forestall the gravity of such sad tales.

Having said all these, we are made more aware of the existence of the people with disabilities in our immediate environment. Myriad of events has made it impossible for our society to lack people who are so challenged. Since they exist, what should be our attitude towards them even as we work hard to ensure a more peaceful and violent free society?

We should avoid any event that could worsen their condition. We can start this by deliberately refusing to expose them to places with likelihood of tension or aggression.

We should encourage them to be their best, and to always be at their best. Start by letting them know that the worth of a person is not in the measure of his body; that is to say, your leg, hand, eye, ear, etc is not the sum total of your personality. Personhood is measured from the heart, and every living person has a heart!

Refuse to discriminate against them. Of course, there are some vocations that they are not naturally “equipped” to do, so politely tell them so. Reason will prevail on them not to insist, but if they do don’t worry, nature has a way of balancing things.

With these and more, let’s strive to make our society livable.

will rather dance and make money instead of begging for alms-Crazy Legs, A Proud Comedian

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April 7, 2019

IF you are a regular at the celebrity hangout, O’jez inside the National Stadium premises, Surulere, Lagos, then you much have encountered comedian Vershima Mende, popularly known as Crazy Legs.

Though physically challenged, with legs cut off at the knees, the handsome young man in his early 20s would rather not sit at the roadside and beg for alms like most of his mates with less disability.

“I will rather dance and make money than to go and sit at the roadside and beg for alms like most disabled people do. In fact, I always feel embarrassed when people give me money at the bus stop while I wait for the bus. I always tell them politely, sorry, I am waiting for the bus like you, and I am not here to beg. But many would rather insist I took the money and sometimes I do because you know human being, they will begin to say I am a proud person.”

Is he a proud person? “Yes, I am a proud Nigerian who believes that I must work hard to make a living and not constitute a nuisance to the society by begging for alms.”

It will surprise one to know that Crazy Legs is also an athlete. He has represented Nigeria at the All Africa games held in Congo, though he did not win any medal in the sports for physically challenged athletes.

“I got to the final in weightlifting in the 170kg category.”

He is into Short Put, Javelin, Discus (class 57) and Lawn Tennis. He also plays football. All these started in 2010 when he realised that people living with disability are still participating in sports.

“I have never allowed my condition to limit me, so most times I chose to play football with able bodied men just to prove that what they can do, I can do it too. Although I notice that they treat me with caution in the field of play, something I am really not comfortable with anyway. Of a truth, I don’t often think about my disability because everything I have wanted to do, I have done,” the Benue State native said.

LOIS AUTA’s giant strides despite disability

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April 7, 2019

Lois Auta has over five years of experience advocating for the betterment of persons with disabilities. She is a support staff with NNPC, she is the founder and team leader of Cedar Seed Foundation, Nigeria. The NGO’s objective is to mainstream the issues and concerns of women, girls and children with disabilities in Nigeria into the national development agenda based on the United Nations evaluation of the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs). Cedar Seed Foundation visualizes a world where People with Disability constituency participates fully in the society and enjoys equal rights. Lois is a young physically challenged lady who is very productive, a role model, hardworking, and full of ideas. She has never allowed her disability to make her a liability despite her humble background but fought her way through life. She proved her ability by driving from Abuja to Kano, about 428km, (5 hours 45 minutes) to meet with late Galadima of Kano on how to empower persons with disabilities educationally, may his soul rest in peace. Amen. She is a sports athlete, in her empathy for her disabled colleagues and the passion in empowering them socio-economically; she set up this organization in search of ways to better their lives, thereby helping to integrate them into the society as responsible and productive citizens. She is the President,FCTDisabled Sports Club – Abuja, Vice President Mandela Washington Fellow Alumni, Nigeria Chapter, Board Member- Federation of Civil Servants Staff with Disabilities Multipurpose Cooperative Society, Assistant National Coordinator – Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiative, Board Member – Potters Gallery Initiative, Member – Joint National Associations of Persons with disabilities, founder, Ability Africa, president, women on wheels multipurpose cooperative society.

She holds a diploma in Public administration from University of Abuja and is presently a Bachelor of Science (400 L) undergraduate in Public Administration from the same university.

EARLY LIFE

She was born on 29 of April, 1980 to the family of Auta Akok, the seventh of eleven children, she was born at 13^th wedding anniversary of her parents. They wedded on 29 April, 1967. That’s remarkable and she seems special and blessed from birth. She was born into a Christian family and hails from Kagoro, Kaura Local Government of Kaduna State, raised in Kagoro by her lovely parents and siblings by names, Ladi, Jonathan, Christopher, Alice, Obadiah, Didam, Albert, Nimrod, Emmanuel, Ben and Matilda. Her parents and her siblings Jonathan, Alice, Obadiah and Didam has passed on but their legacies and memories still lives and linger on. She wishes they stayed longer to eat the fruits of their labour. They were her backbone, they made her the woman she is today and gave her life to the fullest. Wherever they are now, they should be very proud of her and she owes her entire success to them. Lois mourns and prays for them to rest in peace until she meets them again to part no more. Her siblings who are still living Chris, Albert, Nimrod, Emma, Ben and Matilda, she appreciate their support and wish to be part of the family even in her next world. She also acknowledge the support of her sister’s in-laws Ann, Lilian, Kasham and Maryam, her nieces and nephews Konyan, Sapphire, the twins (Merciful and Faithful), Gracious, Estella and Zina. She attribute the entire support for the much achieve to the God and Creator.

LIFE WHEN GROWING UP

She saw herself physically different from her siblings, children and people around her but she never allowed it weigh her down rather it gave her the strength to move on. It was an uphill task growing up as a child with disability, physically different from other children at home and pupils in the school. She was shy to mingle with other children; she was scared of attending public functions or social gathering, always staying indoors and isolated. It took the resilient effort of her parents to brace her up and she was able to reignite her self-esteem. Some persons with disabilities blame God for their disability but she praise God for hers because to her God is using her to manifest his greatness to mankind. Some see their disabilities as weakness, she sees hers as strength, some wait for others to give them but she works to give others. She has vowed that disability would not stop her from realizing her destiny and actualizing her goals. She is working relentlessly to be a blessing to her generation and be a source of envy not pity. She is of a strong belief that disability only affected her legs not her brains, and her vocation that she has started off in good note, she will work so hard to sustain the pace and finish also in a good one with the support of God. Some persons with disabilities see their disabilities as a challenge; she sees hers as an opportunity. With disability she drove from Abuja to Kano, she has received awards of excellent, she has empowered others, and she has explored many things in many ways and excelled, why? Due to hard work, help from God and commitment. In disability, this young lady has created abilities, hope and a brighter future. If she could do it, so many others can do it. Young people, Stop waiting for someone to help you, rise up, start doing something and investors will find you. Disability can never define you rather you define abilities in many special ways. In a world of disability, there is ability!

She was bullied by her classmates, they mimicked the way she walk, she was mocked alongside my parents, abuses like; you cannot go anywhere in life, lets watch and see how you will marry, that girl ”with no legs”, that disabled girl cannot do something meaningful in her life. People looked down on her, they always remind her parents that they have a child with disability and her parents responded that they should wait and see what their child will become. Her parents as if they can see tomorrow bragged that she will be the best in her endeavours and she will definitely be a great woman. Today, the girl they mocked, called all sort of names, the girl they looked down on, the girl they said can never go anywhere, who they even referred as ”no legs girl” has become a great woman, an administrator, a disability affairs advocate and activist, an international figure, a great leader, no legs girl is going to places they have never imagined, is now having meetings with the world presidents, world leaders, force to reckon with, a blessing and an achiever. Where are their children?

HER ACHIEVEMENTS

Lois Auta credibility also featured in its selection and participation as a member of the technical committee for the deliberation and draft of Nigerian Disability Bill passed at the two arms of National Assembly, waiting for presidential assent now. She participated in Vision 20:2020 as a special interest group member for persons with disabilities. A member of the constitutional review representing persons with disabilities for North Central Geo-political zone. She was the first and only female disabled to be among the extraordinary (1000) youths that were selected to celebrate Nigeria’s democracy day with Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan and federal ministers on 29th May, 2014, held at International Conference Centre, FCT Abuja. Lois Auta was the first Miss Wheelchair Kaduna State. She is the first female living with disability to work with NNPC from Southern Kaduna. She attended and participated at International Wheelchair Tennis Federation, double master’s clinic, Mission Viejo, California, USA. The first disabled and only fellow to receive an award from Linking Sports and Communities, United States of America for promoting disabled sports globally. She is the first to receive a certificate of Washington Fellowship signed by President Obama from Northern Nigeria. Lois Auta is the first physically challenged Mandela Washington Fellow in Kaduna State and the entire Northern Nigeria. The first disabled lady in Nigeria to meet the Obamas, She had a handshake with President Obama and a hug from Michelle Obama.

Lois Auta activities have attracted international recognition, one of which is the just concluded 2014 Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders in the United States of America, about 50,000 youths applied in Africa, 15,000 of the applications received came from Nigeria, only 500 were finally selected. In Nigeria alone, just 44 made it to the USA. You could see how tough it was; only the best and the brightest were selected. The CEO spent six weeks at Arizona State University studying Civic Leadership and one week in Washington DC. Lois Auta is now a Mandela Washington Fellow. She participated fully and awarded as one of the best graduating Fellows and was given an award by Linking Sports and Communities as the Most Valuable Player (MVP) for promoting disabled sports globally.

The Executive Director/Founder, Lois Auta who is a support staff with NNPC has been nominated and elected on the 16th October, 2014 as Vice President of the Mandela Washington Fellows Alumni, Nigerian Chapter a program of Barack Obama during a 4 days reunion conference at US General Consulate Office, Lagos. She is the assistant national coordinator, Advocacy for women with disabilities initiative, she is the president FCT disabled sports club, she is a board member, potters gallery initiative, she is also a board member cooperative federation of persons with disabilities in Nigeria, founder, Ability Africa, president, women on wheels multipurpose cooperative society.

HER ORGANIZATION CEDAR SEED FOUNDATION

Cedar Seed Foundation, (CSF) is a Youth led non-governmental, non-profit and non-sectarian membership based development organization that promotes the participation of women and young persons with disabilities into human rights based development in Nigeria, founded and run by Lois Auta and her team members. Their membership includes women groups, self-help groups, special schools, cooperative societies/groups representing over 55,000 memberships across Nigeria. They work to mainstream the issues and concerns of persons (females and males) with disabilities in Nigeria into the national development agenda based on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). Cedar Seed Foundation has been active and running activities for the past five years, though formally registered in 2013.

Their Values:

Champion inclusion

Empower persons with disabilities

Deliver excellence

Accountability

Respect others

The organization focuses on ensuring that women and young persons with disabilities practically participate fully in addressing their key sensitive issues in the society and enjoy equal human rights based development and opportunities by providing services that support youth and persons with disabilities in all aspects of life.

WHAT THEY DO

They mainstream the issues and concerns of persons with disabilities in Nigeria into the national development agenda based on the United Nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities and of action on the rights of persons with disabilities.

THEMATIC AREAS

Democracy and good governance

Entrepreneurship

Medical Health Services

Education

Employment

Empowerment

Accessibility

Economic and Social Security

Advocacy

DEVELOPMENT STRATEG IES

Legislative advocacy

Capacity building

Development networking

Civic engagement

PROJECTS THEY HAVE DONE SO FAR

CSF has in 2012, partnered with Potters Gallery Initiative to carry out an empowerment programme for people with disabilities (PWDs) using Art exhibition to present, discuss and document their electoral experiences through Democratic Governance for Development with contributions from EU, UKAID,CIDA and UNDP. The project was designed in view of the challenges around infrastructure and how most people with disability were disenfranchised due to their inability to access polling units. The event involved the people with disability doing an art exhibition that captured their own personal stories on their electoral experiences. This initiative was termed “Vital Voices for Democracy”.

CSF has also successfully implemented an empowerment project tagged ”Easter Reach Out” in 2013 which supported 120 PWDs with mobility aids in Kaduna State. The project was funded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC. CSF also had an event ”Inclusive Education Project” where they awarded scholarships and provided scholastic materials to 100 students with disabilities in May 2014 in Abuja, with fund support from Sahara Group.

With support from US Embassy, NDI and UNDP (through DGD), CSF also carried out Capacity Building Training workshop on Organizational Capacity development in collaboration with Potters Gallery Initiative for the members of the two organizations.

In September, 2014 with the support of US Embassy, Nigeria. Cedar Seed Foundation empowered 30 young persons with disabilities from ages 18 to 25 with International Jazz Artist Bobby Ricketts on Music skills in Abuja. It was inspiring.

December 03, 2014 Cedar Seed Foundation in commemoration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities marked the day by an advocacy walk, radio talk show and a press conference, they talked about nagging issues on disability, the theme for the year and demanded President Goodluck to sign our bill into law. Media outfits, CSF team members and friends of the disabled were present and the event was aired on national news on major television channels in Nigeria. It was a huge success.

December 22, 2014 Cedar Seed Foundation organized Christmas Reach-Out with support from Sahara Group distributed 50kgs of bags of rice to each beneficiary. More than 100 persons with disabilities in the FCT participated and benefited from the event, drawn from the six area councils of the federal capital territory. Lives were touched!

CSF is a reputable organization registered with Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with Reg. number 63008 and as well a legally registered org. with Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) and Coalition for Youth Capacity (CYC).

OUR PARTNERS

The Autas
United Nations Development Program
Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation
Sahara Group
United States of America Embassy, Nigeria.
Youngstars Foundation
New Estate Baptist Church
IREX
YALI

AWARDS RECEIVED

House of David, Utako, Abuja, Nigeria, June 2012 — The Most Courageous Member
National Wheelchair Tennis Federation Clinic, Abuja, Nigeria May 2013 —- Best Female Player/Winner
Linking Sports and Communities, Arizona, USA July 2014 —– (MVP) Most Valuable Player for promoting disabled sports globally.

HOW WILL SHE BE REMEMBERED?

Lois Auta wants to write her name in Gold and in her words, she said the following; I want to be remembered as a change maker, a servant, a giver, a passionate leader, a problem solver, a leader with innovative ideas, a good listener, generous woman, a committed and transparent leader, helper, an ethical leader and a woman with integrity. Whoever you are, whatever your pedigree, you and I will only be remembered for two things after this life. The problems you created in peoples life OR the problems you solved in peoples life.

HER MESSAGE TO MR PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI

Persons with disabilities have rights and such rights could be exercised when our bill is signed into law with a commission to run our affairs, Nigerian disability bill have been harmonized in both houses. Please, ejoh, kusu, don Allah Sir, kindly assent to our bill now.

HER HOPES

To be a change agent in her community and society at large. She hopes to contribute her quota in the improvement and building her country Nigeria. She hopes to see Persons with Disabilities as decision makers, leaders of the world leading companies and directors. She hopes to see qualified persons with disabilities being employed. She hopes to see them living a comfortable life. She hopes to see accessible Nigeria for persons with disabilities. She hopes to see end to poverty especially among persons with disabilities, She hopes to see every child is educated, She hopes to see a transparent and accountable government. She hopes to see Nigeria living in peace, love and harmony. She hopes to see the end to boko haram insurgency, killings, bombings, abduction, rape, kidnapping, armed robbery, corruption and gender based violence. She hopes to see an inclusive development in all the three tiers of government. She hopes to see during her lifetime, she dedicated herself to this struggle of the less privileged Nigerian people. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and achieve. I will continue fighting for inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities in all government policies and programs until the end of my days.

HER DREAMS

She is dreaming of implementing African disability act through the help of other stakeholders and partners. She is dreaming of an empathetic community, society and country. A country where people love each other, the kind of love where we truly put others first before ourselves. She is dreaming of a country where education is valued as the means by which society is improved and progressed. She is dreaming of a country where we can all have our needs met. She is also dreaming of a country that is corruption-free. A dream of seeing killings turned to feelings. Dream of a country where disability issues will be prioritized. Dream of a country where everybody enjoys equal rights and opportunities. Dream of a country where resources are shared. Seeing disability act being implemented in this country and Africa just like ADA in the US is a dream of all persons with disabilities.

Lagos Danfo Driver Who Lost Both Of His Legs In A Road Accident, But Continues His Job

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April 7, 2019

The story of a 32-year-old Pius Abayomi Abiodun is one which causes remorse, pity and at the same time could go for one of the ‘Wonders of Lagos’. The handsome well-built light complexioned gentle man is one of the thousands of Commercial Bus Drivers, popularly called Danfo Drivers, in Lagos.

For a passenger boarding his bus for the first time, nothing suggests Pius has no legs. When a reporter boarded his bus 2 weeks ago at Town Planning junction towards Western Avenue in Lagos, he didn’t notice Pius had no legs to drive the Danfo. After about 10 minutes journey, a driver who rode a mini truck pulled up on the lane Pius drove and before the passengers could blink their eyes Pius increased his speed and got at par with the truck, looked towards the driver and said, “Iwo, ma deal pelu e (You, I will deal with you). You dey try me?” Despite words of caution from his conductor, who said “Leave am” severally Pius did the unimaginable as if he was instructed by the Road Safety men, he applied his breaks and forced the mini truck to a slower speed, one of the Road Safety men gesticulated to the truck driver to pull over for retinue check. Pius didn’t say a word but this reporter could read something like, “You drivers with legs, I will make you all to respect me by force!”.

A more careful look at Pius behind the wheels, the reporter was in for a shocker. Pius controlled the accelerator and brake pedals with his hands. He exhibited the mastery of his specially built Danfo which he operated without any qualms. The reporter and Pius exchanged phone numbers with a promise he would get in touch for an interview soon.

As nature would have it, Pius and the reporter met at the Town Planning Road Junction Bus Stop, where they first met. The reporter quickly hopped into the front passenger seat Pius had instructed his conductor to reserve for the reporter. It was a trip through Western Avenue to Nigeria Breweries Area to Orile Iganmu linking Coker (Ijeshatedo Area) and through Apapa-Oshodi Express Way to Oshodi Terminus and Down to Town Planning Road Junction. The trip lasted for 1 hour 20 minutes and a trip that also got Pius very sober because of a few of the questions took him back memory lane when he had both legs and functioned like every other Lagos Driver with two legs. On the day they agreed to meet as nature would have it they met at the same spot the reporter boarded his bus.

Pius who hails from Mowo, Badagry in Lagos was not born without legs. According to him, he was involved in a fatal accident.

“I was driving a Danfo bus on April 3, 2011, along Lagos Abeokuta Expressway by May Flower Hotel close Olorunsogo Bus Stop. Suddenly the bus developed a fault I felt I could fix. I went down from the bus to the rear where the engine compartment is. While trying to fix my Danfo, another driver was driving on a top speed hit me against the rear of my bus and that was all I knew. I was rushed to the National Orthopedic Hospital, Gbobi, Lagos. Two days after the accident, my two legs were amputated. I was at Igbobi for 4 months. The operation, medication and physiotherapy cost me all my savings. And I had to go to people seeking for financial assistant. In all it cost about 4 Million Naira to get me out of the hospital.”

Thereafter he was discharged and what could be least described as frustration set in for Pius who had never taken to begging to live.

He was in a dilemma as to how to care for his wife who was pregnant then and his daughter and other bills.

“I got so frustrated that I always thought of suicide as an option. Most times I am moody because I couldn’t imagine I no longer had legs to move around.”

Not giving up on his condition, Pius decided to go into Weight Lifting. This was after it had been confirmed to him he would need artificial limbs for both legs. The cost of two limbs, according to him, was 5 Million Naira.

“I didn’t give a second thought to begging as an option for survival”, Pius said in a louder tone.

He joined other physically challenged sportsmen at the National Stadium, Surulere Lagos. Even at that he wasn’t in his best state of mind. He kept telling his new found friends (since the old friends were nowhere to be found) that he used to be a commercial bus driver. One day at the National Stadium someone who felt moved by Pius’ attitude suggested he goes to The Mobility Aid and Appliances Research and Development Centre, Amuwo Odofin area, Lagos owned by millionaire, Cosmas Okoli who is also physically challenged.

“When I met Cosmas, he encouraged me and asked me what I could do. I told him I used to be a Danfo driver. He assured me, he would help me construct a bus I can drive with my hands.”

Pius had to also look for a car dealer that could give him a bus and he could pay on instalments. He succeeded in getting a dealer. Took the automatic Volkwagen Bus (Danfo) to Cosmas who fabricated some metals to the pedals, he simply called ‘LEGS’. A closer look at the device built by Cosmas which cost 50 Thousand Naira only shows the break and accelerator pedals are both controlled by a long rod underneath the steering.

The metal rod controls the break and accelerator pedals. To speed he pulls up the rod to his chest and to apply the break, he pushes the rod down. Pius has so mastered the use of his special device that most commuters who board his bus hardly notice the man behind the wheels has no legs.

Asked if he has ever had experience of passengers being scared on sighting him after they have boarded his bus, Pius chuckled said:

“A lot of passengers express their disbelieve. Though I had never had a situation of passengers getting scared of me. A lot of them watch me as I drive. Some pray for me while others are too stunned to talk until they get to their destinations.”

Pius revealed he does not go out for any social activities. He likes to be indoors whenever he is not on Lagos road trying to make ends meet. He likes to help his 2 kids Rachael aged 5 and Samson aged 2 with their home work from school.

Does Pius feel pains on any part of his body since he does everything with his hands?

“Yes, I feel pains like once a month on spot of both legs that I was amputated.” Obviously, as one may see in the photo above, he was amputated beyond the knell joints.

When does his day start?

“I leave my house at Mushin area around 9 a.m. every morning. I don’t stop work until 8 p.m. at night.”

So how does Pius who has no crutches around him inside the bus get into the bus daily?

Pointing at the rear of his car, he said “I use my wheel chair. I park my bus around 3 streets away from my house so once I park, the conductor helps me get the wheelchair down and I get on it.”

There are stories of bus conductors absconding with money made from daily trips. How does Pius who lost his mother 5 years ago guide against this?

He further revealed that he does not employ unknown conductors. “I employ those who live in my neighbourhood.” He replied without much attention as he tried to confirm if he has all the seats occupied in his bus at the popular Cele Bus Stop on Apapa Oshodi Express Road.

Pius doesn’t work on Sundays. He goes to church with his immediate family members. They all ride with him on Sundays from their Itire Road, Mushin abode to The Redeemed Evangelical Ministry (TREM), Kirikiri Road, Apapa, Lagos.

Pius gets his own share of harassment from Police man and officials of Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA). Sometimes he is left to go free when they realize he is physically challenged and sometimes he has to bribe to escape the wrath of the law. Like every Danfo driver, has a nick name. He is called Oni Mama which means the one has a mother. Before the accident that claimed his 2 legs, Pius had the bumper sticker with inscription “Oni Mama” on it. Since then he has been referred to as such among those who know him way back.

The reporter was curious enough to ask Pius if he still makes love to his wife. With a brighter smile, he nodded in the affirmative. What about girl friends?

“I don’t have girlfriends. I have no time to chase women about. I appreciate my wife, Sulia who is very obedient. She is a good woman,” he said.

About the time we go back to Oshodi Terminus, Pius who drove Danfo painted light blue with some level of discipline told the reporter he services it every 2 weeks and pays attention to the special device. He buys a spray regularly from Cosmas Okoli which he uses on the device.

Pius doesn’t want to continue as a Danfo driver, he wishes he gets enough money to start off some other businesses particularly auto parts sales once he finishes paying for the Danfo which he bought on hire purchase.

It is sad, the level of discrimination and gross neglect of Nigerians with disabilities

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April 7, 2019

Mr. Gboyega Ibukun Alesinloye is an assiduous person with disabilities with an impeccable achievement. Four two years ago Mr. Gboyega in Ebute Meta area of Lagos State was born into a humble of Mr. J.K Alesinloye and Late Mrs.M. M, Alesinloye with four other siblings Mrs Funmilola Joesph, Pastor Olakunle Alesinloye, Olasupo Alesinloye and Sunday Enitan Alesinloye. This happily married man who grew up around Agege/Ikeja Lagos have a degree in Microbiology and master’s degree in International Health and Development., In this interview, we try to dip into his life and how he managed to achieve so much in the face of disability.

TQ: What is your Educational background?

I actually had my first encounter at a school at the Atundaolu Handicap Primary School, Surulere but had to stop when my family moved away from the neighbourhood, including other family matters. After three years, I resumed at a different school, State Primary School, Iloro, Agege which was the beginning of my mainstream educational experience. From here, I went to St. Joseph Secondary School, Mangoro, Agege for my Senior Secondary Certificate and later attended the University of Ibadan for my first degree (BSc.) in Microbiology. After working for few years, I applied for and was awarded a Ford Foundation International Fellowship for my master of public health, MPH, degree in International Health and Development at America’s only school of tropical medicine – the Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans.

TQ: How did you fund your education?

I would like to state that I had a very rough and financially-challenging background, hence, I am a product of the generous care of Catholic’s Daughters of Charity who largely took care of my secondary school support and that of my first degree. Perhaps, I’d share more on this with you some other time/avenue. My second degree in the U.S. was through the Ford Foundation International Fellowships Program award.

TQ: To you recall when your disability occurred and how it happened?

No, but I was told I had Polio when I was less than a year old.

TQ: Did your disability affect your education in any way?

Yes, it affected the early years when I had to stop and stayed at home for three consecutive years. I only had some physical barriers/challenges afterwards since my subsequent schools were not special schools.

TQ: Do you recall facing problems of discrimination during your school days and now that you are working?

Not really but well, due to my personality and background, I am never so sensitive to picking up discriminatory attitudes and not good at reading meanings to attitudes and gestures. So, I won’t be able to highlight many discriminating cases/instances I faced personally during those days except those meted by structural barriers and peers; most of which had to do with being kept out of the loop of things pertaining to social gatherings, discussions and engagements. But I’ve not been able to pick up any from my work setting.

TQ: What are the other challenges you are facing presently in carrying out your daily activities?

This would be being looked down upon on the virtue of just living with a mobility disability by default, until they get wind of my status and personality.

TQ: Going by your peculiar experiences of discrimination and challenges you faced, proffer solutions in your own understanding how the lives of people with disabilities can be greatly improved?

I believe persons with disabilities can greatly protect themselves by having more positive disposition to life and having very strong and high level of self-esteem.

TQ: Please outline your achievements so far that you are living with disabilities?

Since I had Poliomyelitis as an infant, I’ve lived all my life with a disability. Except the grace of God, I’m not that good nor perfect nor with the affluent background to have achieved the much I have till date. I can’t really recall/outline all you would term “achievements,” but will try to the best of my understanding and view.

Most importantly, my education, and present status, has been a huge achievement for me considering my humble and challenged background. I remain the only one with a tertiary educational certificate in my family. I’ve had to go to school with empty stomach many times, walked tens of kilometers, and didn’t experience any post-class lesson/coaching. I’ve had to also do without some level of social engagements with peers in exchange for my studies which contributed immensely to passing my SSCE at a sitting. I also did something I never thought I’d do to raise money for my JAMB form – no, it’s not bad nor harmful but painful. Eventually, I entered and studied for my first degree without a strong backbone but a consistent support to cater for the major funding required from the Daughters of Charity.

In my final year, expected of every final year student, I started hunting for after-school opportunities such as post graduate opportunities. Then, I stumbled on a poster on Ford Foundation International Fellowships Program, Ford IFP, but wasn’t qualified as it required three years of post NYSC work experience. After working for about two and a half years, I decided to apply for the fellowship in 2007, though primarily to just get experience and prepare towards the following year. Little did I know that that was the chance God had kept for me. I applied, and among about two thousand other applicants, I was one of the cohorts of 16 that got it in 2008, had a year of Pre-Academic Trainings in-country and left the shores of the country for my dream of having an international degree in the U.S.A.

In order to honor the commitment I made to the Ford IFP, I returned to Nigeria after my studies. It wasn’t so easy readjusting to the system after staying away and enjoying the best of civilization, care and provision for people, and persons with disabilities in particular, for so long. But I had to constantly remind myself of the need to stick with and honor my commitment towards contributing my quota to the socio-economic development of the country, and specifically, the disability community.

As you’d expect and wonder, it has been so challenging and getting engaged professionally wasn’t so easy as well. But eventually, I reaped the benefits of networking and being nice to all when a friend of mine and fellow Nigerian in the U.S. (at Tulane) helped in securing a dream job here with one of the leading international organizations in public health having a tie with one of the past presidents of America.

TQ: What are the factors responsible for you recording so much success in spite of the enormous challenges?

I’d say strong belief in myself and my abilities, while being mindful of all my actions and activities in the past. I relate freely and fairly with everyone I encounter irrespective of age, economic status, education, gender and disposition about me. The climax of all these is my trust in God and His good plans for me in granting my expectations.

TQ: Are you married?

Yes

TQ: How did you find your wife?

At a function in Lagos to celebrate Christmas with Orphans and Vulnerable Children.

TQ: What are the challenges you faced in getting her to marry you?

Having to be together irrespective of disability considerations and discrimination

TQ: As one who has been able to shake off disability, what advice do you have for persons with disabilities?

Have a positive disposition to life and see beyond your disability (ies) for the inherent opportunities, skills and abilities in you. Concentrate more on developing yourself and skills to stand out and be a marketable asset in our challenging and competitive society at large.

TQ: What is your reaction on the state of a person with disability in Nigeria is it improving or declining, the bill, security and other national issues as it affect PWDs?

Well, compared to the stone age, I’d say it’s improving, but far from it in today’s age of modernization, especially amidst the enormous wealth we have as a country. Having experienced and enjoyed the kind of care and protection persons with disabilities get in a caring and responsible society and as a strong disability advocate in Nigeria, I can’t but remain sad about the level of discrimination and gross neglect, and violation of human rights persons with disabilities face in this country.

On several occasions, we have toiled and labored so hard, with enormous support from development partners, to develop, summit and garnered support for successful passage of the Nigerian Disability Bill by the National Assembly only for our former and incumbent presidents to blatantly refuse assenting to it. With the signing and ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, UNCRPD, by Nigeria, we thought that would automatically translate to better lives for us through enhanced livelihood, employment cum social security, and importantly to the passage of the disability bill. Instead, we continued to be disappointed, ignored and treated as insignificant, unfortunate and inconsequential entity within our own country.

In cases of emergencies, including insecurity, political unrests, riots etc, we, persons with disabilities, are mostly affected, and we remain the most vulnerable and at risk. People and authorities completely forget about persons with disabilities but focus more on women and children, without any regard for those among them living with disabilities. At a time, I approached the National Emergency Management Agency on the inclusion of persons with disabilities but nothing was done and no PWD was even employed nor contracted on this, to the best of my knowledge.

It’s a well-known and acknowledged fact that the passage of any law or policy does not automatically translate to better lives. Yet, it’s about the most important step towards such good life as it establishes and enshrines existence to such entity covered for protection, provision and correction. The existing of a Nigerian Disability Act, with an implementing commission, will enlist us as one of the progressive societies in the world and further stamps our mark on the path of greatness and as a leading example of a country truly worthy of a seat on the UN Security Council, and will in no time make it permanent.

TQ: What is your career aspiration or rather life aspiration?

Hmmnn….I wish to get the needed support to earn a PhD in my career path as soon as possible.

TQ: Parting words/Final words

Adegboyega Ibukunoluwa Ajani Ebenezer Alesinloye is very passionate about seeing a Nigerian society build upon equity and justice, caring for the vulnerable groups and respecting the fundamental human rights of her citizens borne out of a strong, proactive and responsible democratic values, virtues and willingness.

I’d love to reiterate the fact that “Basic Life’s Troubles and Problems are Mere Challenges to Test the Sincerity of One’s Purpose in Life

A man become a source of hope to people with disabilities after he lost his limbs

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April 7, 2019

Mohammed Abba Isa was born in Maiduguri, the State Capital of Borno on the 12^thof December, 1972 and was brought up in the same city. He hailed from Yunusari Local Government of Yobe State. He attended to Bullunkutu Primary School, Maiduguri, from 1980-1986, thereafter; he proceeded to Government Senior Science Secondary School Monguno where he completed his secondary school in 1992. He obtained a Bachelor Degree in Public Administration from the University of Maiduguri in 2013 and Post Graduate Diploma in Project Management. He worked with Chad Basin National Park Maiduguri, Borno State, for a period of 6 years, from 1994 – 2000 and later he worked as an Administrative Assistant with Yobe State Community-Based Poverty Reduction Project (World Bank Assisted) now Community and Social Development. He is a family man who with one Daughter Fatima Mohammed Isa who was had by his wife that abandoned him when he had an accident in 2006. He is happily married now with beautiful Zarah Muhammad Umar. he was pioneer/founder/former State Chairman of Joint National Association of persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Yobe State Chapter; He is the APC Zonal Disable leader North East and State Chairman, Spinal Cord Injury Association of Nigeria, Yobe State Chapter. He is the Executive Director, Rebuilding Hope on Wheels Initiatives (RHOWI)Yobe state Chapter, it isNGO/DPO/CSO that has been transforming the lives of PWDs and advocating for inclusive development in Yobe State. He has attended several courses in development work and civic engagements both in United State of America, United Arab Emirate UAE and other African Countries. He is a certified member of different professional bodies and organizations, UN member with CSCM of Cosp11 to UNCRPD, Member Institute of Public managers and Administrators IPMA, Members Chartered Institute of Project Management CIPM, Member Amnesty Internationally Org. For human rights, Member Yobe Network of CSOs of Nigeria, Cluster member with CISLAC for PWDs, Member Kpankpando Foundation care for less Privileges and Member Christopher foundation for PWDs UK.

He has some fellowship awards, Drew University USA, New Jersey, North East Intellectual Entrepreneurship Fellowship NEIEF, Bridge Fellow award on intersect between Sustainable Development Goals and UN convention for the rights of persons with disabilities SDS/UNCRPD.

He has some leadership awards of excellent, Youth Ambassador by Zudam and Maigoje Foundation, Leadership award by Garkuwan Nakasassu foundation Kano, Ambassador of Peace by NEYIF in collaboration with NERI, YARI network award in completion of course on concept of Human Rights.

He is one of the three Nigerian trained experts on United Nation Convention of rights for persons with disabilities UNCRPD and Sustainable Development Goals with Implicit reference to Persons with Disabilities certified by BRIDGE International Disability Alliance (IDA), International Disability Development Consortium (IDDC) and World Disability’s Caucus.

He is also one of only two Nigerians selected as members to Civil Society Coordination Mechanism CSCM on Conference of State Parties 11 to UNCRPD by International Disability Alliance (IDA).

In this interview, he shared with us how he had a spinal cord injury in an accident and other of his life experiences.

Do you recall when your disability occurred and how it happened?

My disability occurred in the course of my sacrifice. As the eldest son in our extended family, I was the bread winner. When our father was alive, he was a civil servant serving at the INEC office in Maiduguri. After his death, his gratuity was not paid to us for almost 3 years. Therefore, as the eldest child, I began to pursue his benefit. In the course of our pursuit, we were lastly told that it is only in INEC headquarters in Abuja that we could be attended to, so I started traveling to Abuja. I was in INEC headquarters for 3 times but all my efforts didn’t yield any fruit. When it seems all hope has been lost, we got a phone call from one of their Staff and I was told to quickly come to Abuja assuring me of his assistance on the matter so that they will pay us in the next quarter of the year. On that fateful day 16th October, 2006, as I was on my way to Abuja, I was involved in a ghastly motor accident, along Bauchi to Jos Road, in which I sustained a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) that confined me permanently to a wheel chair after a series of treatment and rehabilitation in Germany and India with the sponsorship from Yobe State Government. After my self-expulsion and have reported to my office since. I thank God for my life. Life is all about living.

Did your disability affect your education in any way?

To me disability is about mindset, zeal and ability to aspire in life. The time I can say my disability affected my education was during my trauma period, I was an undergraduate when I had accident. I went back to school after years of treatment as a result of my accident and I went back as a wheel chair user. Gracefully, I obtained my BSc (Hons) in Public administration in 2013.

How did you fund your education?

I funded my education through self-sponsor through monthly earnings.

Do you recall facing problems of discrimination during your school days and now that you are working?

No, I have never experienced any discrimination during my studies at the University, either from colleagues or lecturers. In fact, I was recognized as a Special student. They gave me assistances that persons with disabilities require. Sometimes, lecturers would even change venues of our lectures because of me if the building was not accessible or wheel chair complied. But, as a person with disability in Nigeria, discrimination is inevitable. Nigerian society has a wrong notion about disability. Nigerians believe that the best for someone with disability is street begging.

What are the other challenges you are facing presently in carrying out your daily activities?

The Greatest challenge I am facing are inaccessibility and discrimination. When you are denied access to social interaction, you have been discriminated. For instance, I cannot have access to public buildings like banks, Market places, State offices, libraries, schools and transportation systems. Architectural designs and construction of public estates and other community houses are exclusively inaccessible to the PWDs. It is difficult for PWDs to use most public buildings without lift and ramps. I have never used my ATM card on any machine by myself. I always have to get helping hands. Transportation is very important in ones day to day activities or in carrying out business transactions. If orderliness is restored, and accessibility facilities provided at our bus stops, railway stations and airports, the PWDs will embrace life with more confidence. And if there is legislation, which provides that all vehicles imported for the purpose of public transportation must have accessibility facilities, then the PWDs will be able to make remarkable progress in the very competitive world.

Going by your peculiar experiences of discrimination and challenges you faced, proffer solutions in your own understanding how the lives of people with disabilities can be greatly improved?

The problems facing People Living with Disabilities (PWDs) in this country are enormous, and these are militating against their productivity and performance. There is need to sensitize the governments, individuals, private organizations and civil society organizations to create conducive atmosphere for social, economic and political integration of the PWDs. The voice of the persons with disabilities must be heard loud and clear. In my opinion, the lives of PWDs can be greatly improved if opportunities for local stakeholders to meet and share ideas with counterpart from other countries in any conference, symposium and articulate positions that would proper solutions and recommendations that would enable both the private and public sectors to deal adequately and effectively with the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in Nigeria.

Please outline your achievements so far that you are living with disabilities?

So far my achievement in disability communities cannot be over emphasized. As we are all aware, JONAPWD has been existing for the past 20 years in this country, but Yobe state was excluded, persons from the state were not given the opportunity to participate. I am the founder of JONAPWD in Yobe State to become a State Chapter in 2012. Being the State Chairman, during the period under review we have sensitized the Stakeholders, Private organizations, media organizations, community leaders, religious leaders and CSO about the objectives of JONAPWD in the State and LGAs. We advocated for the inclusion of persons with disabilities into Special Empowerment programmes like Sure-P and vocational trainings by the State Government. It is in my reign that Yobe State University gives free education to persons with disabilities in the State. Through our courtesy to the office of SSG we advocated for the empowerment of 1000 PWDs in order to stop them from street begging, establishment of disability commission, Housing Schemes, Rehabilitation of workshops, Establishment of special schools for the visually impaired persons in the state capital, and we have been assured by the State government that all will be implemented. Through my contact with the NGO to Partner with JONAPWD, SIR EMEKA OFFOR FOUNDATION distributed 75 tricycles and 25 crutches to PWDs in Yobe State

What are the factors responsible for you recording so much success in spite of the enormous challenges?

Is Courage and determination, if you believe in Allah (SWA) you will lack nothing. So if persons with disabilities will have this mindset, they can harness their potentials and make out something good for themselves. So disability cannot be and will never be an obstacle in spite of the enormous challenges we are facing.

Are you married?

Yes. I was married before my disability with one daughter Fatima. But, unfortunately, I got separated with Fatima’s mum in 2011. Then in 2014, I got married to a daughter of a former head of Service in Yobe State Government, Late Mohammed Goni Umar.

If Yes, How did you find your wife?

I married my present wife after my first wife whom I married before my disability left me as a result of my predicament. In fact, it was a very painful moment in my life trying to recover from my spinal cord injury, my wife left me. But the disappointment has turned a blessing. God substituted her with a younger and more beautiful one who is also from a highly respected family. She agreed and married me with my present condition. She is a graduate of Estate Management, lecturing at the Federal Polytechnic Damaturu. Her father was one of the respected figures in the State, and a man of his words. I did not face any challenge in marrying her. The only thing I heard was when some people contacted her father and asked him ‘BABA, do you know that the persons you are giving out your daughter for marriage is GURGU(a person with disability)?’. Then Baba said he was aware, and added ‘what happened to him can happen to anybody, he told them that he asked his daughter 3 times but she confirmed that she is in love with him. My own is to pray for them and may Allah bless their union, I have no objection’. Four months after our wedding, my wife’s father died after a brief illness. May his soul rest in perfect peace and may Allah bless him with jannatul firdaus. Ameen.

What are the challenges you faced in getting her to marry you?

I did not get any challenges in marrying my present wife Zarah Muhammad Umar.

As one who has been able to shake off disability, what advice do you have for persons with disabilities?

My words of advice to persons living with disabilities are that they should accept the reality; disability is not inability in any aspect of life. They should not allow the situation they find themselves to weigh them down. As you may already be aware, persons living with disabilities, physical, visual, learning related or otherwise, are perhaps the most marginalized and discriminated segment of our society today. They are often excluded/neglected from participating actively in the socio-economic and political growth of the nation. The common perception of disability intervention either on the side of governments, organizations and individuals is often in terms of charity and welfare, therefore to empower them to enable them build capacity and contribute their quota to the development of their immediate societies and self-actualization have so far become a mirage. This consequently portrays them as a liability to the society. Lastly, my advice to PWDs is that they should try their best to live an independent life. This is not to say that you will not ask for help when needed, but do not entirely depend on others for your daily survival. This will reduce the discrimination. More importantly ‘he who must have friends, must himself be friendly to forestall incidences of discrimination.’ Be friendly and always have a positive outlook.

What is your reaction on the state of a person with disability in Nigeria is it improving or declining, the bill, security and other national issues as it affect PWDs?

Nigeria as one of the Signatory members for the UN Convention on the rights of persons with disabilities failed to meet up the expectation/aspirations of 28m PWDs in Nigeria, I am not happy with GEJ for not signing National Disability bill into law when it was passed by the 7^th Assembly. If there is legislation all that we are advocating for; inclusion, discrimination free, accessibility to public building will be a lot easier. The bill is to protect our rights, give us direction and sense of belonging and self-reliance. The signing of disability bill into law will transform PWDs psychologically, physically, socially and on other National issues that affect PWDs. Therefore I am calling on the present administration that as part of the APC manifestation under section 22 is the quickest implementation of policy and passage of National Disability Bill into law by President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR. I am calling on the government to expedite action for the benefit and well being of 28m PWDs in Nigeria.

What is your career aspiration or rather life aspiration?

Reading and travelling

Parting words/Final words?

Information dissemination is very vital and also a backbone in any organization. The Qualitative magazine I believe is set up bridge the communication gap between PWDs and the nation building. It makes us proud as the media print organization that is communicating to the world about our plights and the way they affect us. I will suggest that the magazine should be distributed to all geo-political zones of the country to enable it reach every nooks and crannies of the country. Kudos to The Qualitative Magazine.

My philosophy is physical disability Is not a barrier to a willing soul By Dr. David Akanji, a Nigerian blind special educator based in USA

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April 7, 2019

Akanji, an educator who just got a doctorate degree in Special Education from Gallaudet University, Washington DC, United States of America, is a man who does not believe that his sight impairment is an excuse for him not to reach the heights. In fact, Akanji is a better cook than some with unimpaired sight. In this interview with Seyi Oduyela, he shared his life experience. His journey started from Bode in Iwo, Osun State, Nigeria, through Little Rock in Arkansas and now Hyattsville in Maryland. He also spoke about his new book and his pet project. Excerpts:

Who is Dr. David Akanji?
I am a native of Iwo in Osun State of Nigeria. It is very important for me, at this particular time, to begin the story of my life in earnest. An article writer says: “Life is a place full of struggles. It is also like a pendulum, which swings from side to side, no one knows when and how it will fall.” As a blind person, I started my struggle in life at a very early age. My philosophy of life is: “physical disability is not a barrier to a willing soul.”
What year were you born and where is your place of birth?
I was born in 1955. Historically, I was born at Bode, a village near Iwo, a town in Osun State of Nigeria.
Were you born blind?
I became blind when I was an infant.
Tell us about your elementary education.
I did not start my primary education until I was 10 years old. I started my education at Ogbomosho Blind Training Centre in 1961. Ogbomosho is in Oyo State of Nigeria. I was there from 1961 to 1963. During the same year, 1963, I was sent to my parents at Bode in order to continue my primary school education. I was at Bode District Council School from 1963 to 1966, when I successfully completed my primary school education. I did not even stop there. In 1967, I had the opportunity to attend Oshodi Vocational Training Centre, where I learned Advanced Braille and Telephone operation. Oshodi is in Lagos, former capital city of Nigeria. I was at the Centre from 1967 to 1968. In 1969, I attended Iwo Catholic Secondary Modern School, where I learned typing. I was there till the end of 1970. Modern School is like Middle School. In 1971, I started my High Education at Ibadan Christ Apostolic Grammar School, Aperin-Oniyere, Ibadan, where I successfully completed my School Certificate papers with flying colours. I was there from 1971 to 1975. In 1981, the then Oyo State Government sent me to the United States of America for further studies. I was admitted by the then Arkansas Enterprises for the Blind. I was there so that I could be taught to use some different types of machines to enable me compete successfully with my sighted colleagues academically.
How long were you there?
I was there for two semesters. In 1982, I was admitted by Philander Smith College, Little Rock, Arkansas for my Degree programme in Special Education. I was at Philander from 1982 to 1985. I successfully completed my degree in three years instead of four. I graduated with Magna Cum Laudi. My thanks will always go to God and Dr. Joseph Amprey, the Vice President for the Academic Advancement at Kutz Town University in Pennsylvania. He was the one who got me a scholarship with which I did my graduate programme at Howard University in Washington DC.
When did you start your graduate programme at Howard and for what course?
I started my graduate programme in 1986. I was at Howard from 1986 to 1987. I completed the programme in three semesters instead of two years. My course of study was M.Ed in Special Education, specializing in Learning Disabilities.
Did you participate in any extracurricular activities on campus?
When I was at Philander, I was a member of “Who is Who” among American Universities and Colleges. I was also a member of Alpha Kappa Mu.
What did you do after you left Howard University?
After the completion of my MA at Howard, I had the opportunity to teach blind people like myself at Logan School for the Blind in North East, DC. I taught sighted students too. I taught braille to blind people and English Literature to the sighted people for many years. I taught with the District of Columbia Public School. Most of my students attended and are still attending the University of the District of Columbia.
You have a PhD. When and where did you do it?
Realistically, I started my PhD in 1998 at Gallaudet University, Washington, DC. Frankly speaking, the journey at Gallaudet as far as PhD is concerned was not a smooth one. But as the Lord would have it, I survived the Doctoral ordeal. By the grace of God, I took my qualifying exams and passed.
What did you write your PhD Thesis on? How did you choose the topic and why?
The topic of my dissertation had been in my mind since the time I was at Philander after I had seriously looked into the problems of blind people like me in Nigeria. As I was thinking about this problem, I started to have the feeling that one day I will go into the nitty gritty of these problems. As I was examining the problems facing blind people in Nigeria, I was able to realize that the contributing factor to the problems of blind and visually impaired in Nigeria must be poor management on the part of administrators.
What are the challenges you are facing?
The journey has not been easy. One thing about disability that I do not like so much is that you have to prove yourself to people every time. As far as people are concerned, once a person is disabled, there is nothing, absolutely nothing that can come out of you. It is left to the physically challenged person to prove that physical disability is not a barrier to a willing soul and also there is no mountain a man or woman cannot climb provided he or she sets the mind on it.
How did you become blind, since you stated earlier that you were not born blind?
When I was a small child, my parents said it was small pox. You know in our country, a very little thing could be blown out of proportion. That is through those evil doers.
When you look back at the beginning and now, how do you feel?
As far as my accomplishments, I strongly believe that I have changed most people’s attitude towards people who are physically challenged. If I can do this, then there is no excuse for anybody not to want to strive.
Tell us more about your family: What is your position and how many children?
I am the third child. My mother gave birth to five children. My father is a polygamist. He married two wives.
From what I know and understand about Iwo people, they are predominantly Muslims. Were you a Muslim before you became a Christian?
I was born Muslim. My Muslim name is Sabitu.
Why and how did you become a Christian?
When I was at Ogbomosho Blind Training Centre, the Baptist Missionaries preached to me and I found Jesus through them. Most importantly, through me, all the people in my family are Christians now.
What led to the book you wrote on Blind Education in Nigeria?
As I have already said, being a blind person and when I got here, especially when I was in Nigeria, I started to go to school, I encountered a lot of problems. There is nothing more stressful, especially when you are physically challenged and you are struggling to survive and people are putting barriers upon barriers on your way. If you don’t have God’s backing and you are not fully determined, there is every possibility for that particular person to give up. As a result, I did not give up and I was able to complete my secondary education in Nigeria. I made up my mind that well, whatever is going to happen, I am not going to sit down and fold my arms and see other blind people encounter the same problems I encountered when I was young like them. As I have told you, my PhD dissertation topic came when I was doing my second statistics at Philander. When I went to Nigeria for data collection and blind people started to narrate to me what those of them who were attending school were going through, I was weeping inside me. I don’t know why they should be neglected like that. As a matter of fact, the government is not even ready to care for them. Some of them were sent to vocational schools but after graduation they have nothing to do. No jobs and the government is not doing anything to set them up. So they eventually go back to begging for survival.
So I felt someone has to stand up to do something to help this people and that is exactly why I decided to write the book.
What do you think your book will achieve?
To serve as an eye opener. It is a wake up call to the Nigerian government at all levels.
What message do you have for physically challenged people?
They should be fully determined. They should not allow anybody to intimidate them or tell them that they cannot do anything about their condition because disability is not inability.
What do you think the Nigerian government should do about education?
I think the system of education in Nigeria should be reviewed because we have been giving ourselves what I can call mental torture. For instance now, you tell me that someone who passed literature and science but failed English language cannot go to the university. Did he write his science, literature, economics and other subjects he passed in another language? For the physically challenged, government should provide adequate educational materials that will help the disabled get the right education they deserve. And those sent to vocational training centres should be taken care of. They need to be gainfully employed.
What is the difference between living in Nigeria and America as a physically challenged person?
Oh my goodness! The gap is too wide. First, America takes proper care of physically challenged people. Let me give you an example: on metro buses and train, disabled people enjoy priority seating. The sidewalks here too enable blind men like me to go anywhere with my cane. Nothing like that exists in Nigeria. Not because we cannot afford it back home. It is because of lack of priority of the government in Nigeria. Those who are not even physically challenged find it hard to live comfortably.
What do you do for fun?
I don’t go to parties. Any party you see me, that person must be very important to me. I do go to parties on very rare occasion.
You live by yourself. How do you do all the things you do by yourself?
That is training. That is why America is great. I learned a lot of self-reliant skills at the Arkansas Enterprises for the Blind. They taught me how to cook. I did not know that I could do what I am doing now. I realized my potentials at Arkansas Enterprises for the Blind. I can do almost everything by myself. I can cook, bake cake and more. Before I will request for any help from a sighted person, I should have tried so hard.
Do you consider going back home?
Yes. I am working on a project now. I have a foundation. The project is setting up school system from elementary to university and vocational training centres to help the physically challenged.

My limbs was chopped off because I am a Nigerian

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April 7, 2019

David Anyaele was born during the Nigeria-Biafran war at #63, Dikenafar Road, Aba into the family of Mr. &Mrs. Robert Anyaele Agwu of Amorji, Igbere Bende Local Government of Abia State. He spent his early life at Ngwa Road area of Aba where he attended Akoli Road Nursery School, Clifford Road Primary School, Wilcox Memorial Comprehensive Secondary School, Ogbor Hill Aba and later University of Education Winneba, Ghana.

He is a chartered member of Nigeria Institute of Public Relations, a motivational speaker, activist and peer counselor and businessman (exporting and importing). Also, the Executive Director, Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD). The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) is an organization of, and for persons with disabilities that works to promote human rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities and their families in development efforts. It was established in 2002 in Lagos and incorporated with the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja as a charitable organization. We have over the past 15 years sought a redefinition of society’s perception of the plight of persons with disabilities. It seeks to realize its mandate through embarking on research, campaign and advocacy, peer group support, networking activities, and training/empowerment projects. The CCD’s mandate and objectives of the are: to protect, promote and safeguard the rights/privileges of persons with disabilities, and promote public enlightenment in civic education, human rights and public policy; to initiate and implement programs, policies and activities geared towards the promotion and enhancement of the welfare of persons with disabilities; to empower or assist empowering persons with disabilities and regularly assess the impact of public policy, human rights and report same through publication, seminar and workshop and lectures; to educate, sinusitis, counsel and mobilize persons with disabilities in various areas critical to their survival and progress and support and advocate for the respect for the rule of law and due process, among others.

We cannot deliver our mandate without collaboration. We have a close relationship with all the major cluster groups and association working on disability issues in Nigeria. Also, CCD is a member of the following organizations: Coalition of disability organizations, Nigerian Coalition on International Criminal Court, International Campaign Against Impunity, Transition Monitoring Group (TMG), Lagos State Civil Society Coalition, Citizens Forum For Constitutional Reform, Coalition for Issue-based Politics and Good Governance, Coalition of Nigerian Human rights CSOs on UPR, Africa Campaign on Disability and HIV/AIDS, UN Coalition Against Corruption among others.

He is happily married to Anne and they are blessed with two boys and a girl.

In this interview, he spoke about how he lost his limbs and the challenges thereafter.

TQ: Do you recall when your disability occurred and how it happened?

This year marks the 19th Anniversary of my limbloss. While visiting Freetown Sierra Leone, January 19, 1999 the RUF rebels of Sierra Leone chopped off my hands forcing me into disability community just because of my identity as a Nigerian.

I lost all in Freetown, I returned not just empty handed but without hand which is man’s greatest tool in life. I also lost friends and family relatives as a result of societal discrimination, stigma and isolation that are associated with living with disability.

It was a kind of a standing instruction from Charles Taylor that Nigerians must be thought a hard lesson on how not to dabbled into internal crisis of another nation, every Nigerian was, therefore, marked for murder or, at least, maiming to serve as an evidence that they were not welcomed like the soldiers of the ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG), the military intervention force put together by West African leaders to restore peace to the war torn countries of Liberia and Sierra Leone.

One day, precisely January 19, myself and other residents received a gang of gun wielding youths as visitors and were duly informed that the visit was to carry out the instructions of Charles Taylor that Nigerians must either be killed or maimed.
I wanted to run, but one of the boys called me back. He first gave an order that I should be shot, but another one said no, that I should be sent to Nigerian government to go and tell the government that ECOMOG should stop attacking them. “He gave a fresh order that my hands be cut, so that I will go and show it to my country. I was to be shot, so I had to stretch my left hand and it was chopped off. When the guy wanted to fire me, I put forward my right hand and it was cut off, that was how I lost my two hands.

“After the two hands were severed, it was like they were still not satisfied, while I was crying to God for help, the rebels were annoyed, one of them poured fuel on me and set fire on me, until one of them said that they don’t want me to die, so that I could show my scare to my people as a testimony that they don’t want Nigeria’s intervention in their domestic affairs.”

It was by special grace of God that I was able to move from the scene of this incident Kissy bypass to Kissy Road where I was able to find roving United Nations Observation personnel. It was there that I was evacuated to Counghought Hospital.Late, the Nigeria contingents of ECOMOG were alerted about what happened to me, from there I was evacuated to Military Hospital in Freetown, where I got treatment before my evacuation to a safe point. By February 3, 1999, I was flown to Nigeria and taken straight to a military hospital Yaba, where I was treated and discharged on August 30, 1999 for rehabilitation.

TQ: Did your disability affect your education in any way?

It was a huge challenge, especially when I was writing my professional examination. In fact, I had to drop from the program due to hostile environment and bad attitude of examiners on my disability. I was encouraged by the program director to continue.

TQ: How did you fund your education?

My education was self-funded by at later days I got a kind of support from family and friends.

TQ: What are the other challenges you are facing presently in carrying out your daily activities?

My major challenge is the cost of procurement and maintenance of the assistive device which I am using. It cost me 42,000 Euro to fix my artificial hands, excluding flight ticket, feeding, accommodation for me and my personal assistant.

TQ: Going by your peculiar experiences of discrimination and challenges you faced, proffer solutions in your own understanding how the lives of people with disabilities can be greatly improved?

To improve the living conditions of persons with disabilities, there is the need to secure a legal framework that would prohibit discrimination on the grounds of disability. This is because; section 15 and 42 of the 1999 constitution is silent on discrimination of persons with disabilities. Also, it is important for states to take appropriate measure to protect persons with disabilities from harmful practices.

TQ: Please outline your achievements so far that you are living with disabilities?

I can’t count them. The most important thing here is that through my disability, I have been privileged to meet you and your team. God has been gracious to me and all I have needed HE has provided to HIS own glory.

TQ: What are the factors responsible for you recording so much success in spite of the enormous challenges?

Trust in God. The Bible I read teaches me to trust in the Lord with all my heart, in all my ways acknowledges HIM, and HE will direct my path.

TQ: Are you married?

Yes.

TQ: If Yes, How did you find your wife?

I met my wife while worshipping at Maryland Seventh Day Adventist Church, Lagos, where I worship. She is a member of the singing group. After the ministration service, I started discussing and interacting with her, it was from there that we became very close friends.

TQ: What are the challenges you faced in getting her to marry you?

Non

TQ: What are the challenges you faced in finding and keeping relationship?

I don’t struggle to find and keep relationship because I don’t go to relationship empty handed. I go into relationship with something that will benefit all.

TQ: As one who has been able to shake off disability, what advice do you have for other persons with disabilities?

Be strong and very courageous. The society is very hostile to pwds BUT with trust in God you will overcome.

TQ: What is your reaction on the state of a person with disability in Nigeria is it improving or declining, the bill, security and other national issues as it affect PWDs?

You may be aware that the sixth legislative session of the National Assembly passed and harmonized the Nigeria Disability Bill 2009. The bill which seeks to ensure full integration of persons with disabilities into the society prohibits discrimination and harmful treatment against persons with disabilities. It also makes provision for the establishment of a National commission for Persons with Disabilities and vests it with the responsibility for their education, health care and protection of their social, economic and civil rights was the fourth bill passed in favour of Nigerians with disabilities since the advent of democratic rule in 1999. Regrettably, just like his predecessors, President Goodluck Jonathan refused assent to the bill reason that the bill provided for the setting up of a commission for disability affairs.

That notwithstanding, the current National Assembly has refreshed the process of securing a legislation that will project Nigerians with disabilities from discrimination and harmful practices. The House of Representatives has passed its own version while the House Senate had its public hearing on the bill on Wednesday March 6, 2013. The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in their contribution at the public hearing insists that the Commission is not desirable but requested for the strengthening of the Department of Rehabilitation, Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development (FMWASD)which is inconsistent with Article 33(2) of the UNCRPD which states as that “States Parties shall, in accordance with their legal and administrative systems, maintain, strengthen, designate or establish within the State Party, a framework, including one or more independent mechanisms, as appropriate, to promote, protect and monitor implementation of the present Convention”. The fear is that if adequate measure is not taken by the organizations of persons with disabilities, the FMWASD may kill this bill which our organization has classified as the only disability bill in the face of the earth with the highest gestation period as it has taken more than 10 years to secure a National disability law for Nigeria. I will like to call on the NASS to take adequate measure to ensure that a commission is provided on the bill. Also, President Goodluck Jonathan should ensure that his government protects the rights of persons with disabilities through signing of the bill into law. A country is not measured by the number of persons in their parliament but by the quality of life of weak and vulnerable members of the society like persons with disabilities.

TQ: What is your career aspiration or rather life aspiration?

To serve persons with disabilities better.

TQ: Parting words/Final words.

I like to commend your team for the quality work you are doing for Nigerians with disabilities, may God bless your efforts and supply all your needs to sustain this work. I thank you so much.

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April 7, 2019

THERE IS BEAUTY IN EVERY DISABILITY

Helen Halima Makama is the face of Kpankpando foundation 2017. She was born in Jos, plateau state thirty six (36) years ago by Mr. Danlami Makama and Mrs. Anna Bankat. She is from Jos South L.G.A. and the only daughter in a family of six, all her siblings are boys. She attended Patmon Nursery and primary school, Narayi, Girls High School Gindiri, Jos 1994-2000, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, 2001-2007 where she acquired a degree in Urban & Regional Planning. She was enrolled in the mandatory NYSC in 2008. She is a member of Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP). The face of Kpankpando Foundation in 2017 and recently her reign was extended to 2019 because the competition for the face of Kpankpando Foundation did not hold in 2018 because the founder of the foundation Senator Osita Izunaso’s mother died few days to the anniversary of the foundation, which normally ushers in a new face of the foundation.

Queen Helen is a renowned disability advocate and ambassador, one of the pioneers of the recently passed Nigerian disability prohibition bill (a bill that is expected to be established by UN member countries in furtherance of UN Convention on the rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)) which awaits the assent of the President. She is also propagating the SDGs, Vision 2030 for mainstreaming people with disabilities in these programmes.

In this interview, she shares with us how her disability occurred, her achievements as the face of Kpankpando Foundation and life aspirations.

TQ: Do you recall how and when your disability occurred?

It was exactly on May 9, 2009 in Gwarinpa during my youth service in Abuja. I was in a car with friends and my friend who was on the steering lost control of the car, the car summersaulted severally, the other two of my friends died at the spot, I survived with severe injuries. I had internal bleeding and a crack on my spinal cord, the resultant effect was that I could no longer walk and I was rehabilitated to be using wheelchair.

TQ: How did you, your family and close friends take it after it was confirmed that you will be on a wheelchair?

It was a disaster to me because I never dreamt of having disability. It was disheartening to my family and close friends. I was full of thought on how to cope with it. Then people started looking at me with a lot of pity, it was discouraging. There were some friends who stayed away from me. It is only when something like this happens that you will know your true friends. My family was confused at first but they later understood that the only option was that I have to be rehabilitated, and start using wheelchair. Then we became positive and look forward for a better future.

TQ: Do you face discrimination and stigmatization thereafter?

Actually, the kind of discrimination I am facing is people looking down on you, some people will see and just pass without any recognition simply because you are on wheelchair. There are perceptions like how am I going to cope, how can I perform my feminine duties and again some use derogatory words while describing me.

TQ: What are the challenges you face in performing your duties as a town planner?

As a town planner, I have to go the site. Unfortunately, my wheelchair can’t access the site locations so I limit my work in the office using the laptop to analyze land usage and drawings. But if I must visit a site, I normally rely on my colleagues to do the site work for me and thereafter we do analysis together.

TQ: Is there any measures that can be put in place for you to visit site just for work fulfillment?

You know there are different site locations and at different times. Nothing can be done about that but for worst scenario, if my presence is needed at the site, I will get there with a HILUX van. Come to think of it, accessibility problem poses the greatest challenge to us living with disabilities in Nigeria. As a town planner, I noticed that we have pedestrian bridges without ramps, shopping malls without ramps, numerous public buildings without ramps, no side walkways on our roads and many more places that lack disability friendly facilities.

TQ: Can you share with me some of your achievements so far?

In the course of my work as a town planner, I worked as a team in planning a layout. I ensured that the malls are designed to have ramps for easy access for people with disabilities. As the face of Kpankpando Foundation, I was among those who pioneered Nigerian Disability Prohibition Bill that was passed by National Assembly and has been transmitted to the President for his assent. The bill if it became law will address so many challenges faced by people with disabilities in Nigeria. There will be penalty for discriminating against people with disabilities in the area of employment, political participation, etc. and it will be unlawful for any public building not to have disability friendly facilities.

TQ: I learnt that you are the face of Kpankpando Foundation, what made you stand out among other beautiful and qualified ladies?

We were 12 of us that contested, 2 from each geopolitical zone. It was not actually about facial beauty but more of your understanding of disability issues and your passion about the plights of people with disabilities and your charisma. I think these were majorly what the judges considered because your duties as the face of Kpankpando foundation is advocate for the rights of people with disabilities and also execute programmes that geared towards assisting them to realize their potentials.

TQ: what are the benefits associated to “Face of Kpankpando Foundation”?

It provided me with a platform to speak for 27 million Nigerians with disabilities which has always been my passion.

TQ: What is your thought about The Face of Kpankpado Project?

I will say that it is all about beauty in disability, it is not necessarily the physical beauty but about those challenges in disability that are surmountable. As the face of Kpankpando foundation, you are exposed to formulation of programmes that will offer direct action to the needs and care of other people with disabilities. For instance, through the project, scholarships has been awarded to some people with disabilities, some have been economically empowered, health insurance scheme has been secured for some people, there has been advocacy drive to see that the rights of people with disabilities are upheld through the bill pioneered at the National Assembly and there has been an advocacy for government to allocate certain percentage for people with disabilities in the area of employment and encourage the private sector to do same. Employment of people with disabilities will go a long way to alleviate their sufferings, we have 27 million Nigerians with disabilities, which is one third of the entire population. If they are properly engaged, we will be winning the poverty war and the impact will be tremendous to our economy.

TQ: What will be your fulfillment at the end of your reign as the Face of Kpankpando Foundation?

To see that people with disabilities are being employed after graduation. To see that Nigerian Disability Prohibition Bill became Law.

TQ: Are you in a relationship?

I am single, some men are calling me claiming that they love me but I am being careful.

TQ: Having been able to shake off your disability, what advice do you have for other people with disabilities?

The challenge of your disability should not deter you from your dreams. We can achieve anything and even help people who are able, just be positive and creative. Always understand that any challenge that comes to you is temporary. We all have talent, discover what you are good at and do it diligently.

TQ: State of Nigerians with disabilities, is it declining or improving?

A lot of NGOs have been speaking on the issues of disability; holding workshops and seminars with little impact on people with disabilities. We now need action plans that will have great impact on the lives of people with disabilities directly, because with all these talk shows, it seems that an average person with disability is getting poorer.

TQ: Security and economy, how did they affect people with disabilities at this time?

Those of us from the north central and north east who are always confronted with these problems will tell you that the chance of survival of persons with disabilities during these attacks is very slim. During attacks, people are running for their lives, we can’t run and nobody will remember to help us. So, you are at the mercy of the attackers. On the part of economy, it has been most unfair to us living with disabilities, especially high cost of transportation. We pay more on transport because we can’t use the cheapest means of transportation, most of us have resorted to taxi (popularly known as drop). A journey that will cost other #50, will cost us #500 to #1000 meanwhile we have slimmest opportunity to means of livelihood. High cost of living affects us more. Corruption has affected us also because resources meant to provide for us and put facilities in place to make life easier for us has been diverted into private pockets.

TQ: Your Career and other life aspirations?

I want to be a philanthropist. I have plan to go back to school for my masters and thereafter establish a town planning firm because I want to be financially suitable before establishing an NGO. I have seen that some NGOs are having challenges because the founders are not financially balanced before setting them up, therefore, when they get funds, they will have little to show for the funds they got because some of funds goes into their personal needs.

TQ: Parting Words?

I want to thank the publisher for giving me the opportunity to speak out through this medium. As election is approaching, I call on our members to come out and exercise their franchise. Vote wisely, vote for those who will promote our cause. People should learn to live in peace, we should rise above corruption, ethnicity and religion. We should concentrate more on our similarities like economic issue because price of things is high and they are the same everywhere. We should be more concern about those issues that will address our well-being as a people.

DSFN Takes Advocacy to Wuse Market, Demands Full Implementation of Intellectual Disabilities Act

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December 14, 2025

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In a bold move to take disability advocacy beyond conference halls and into everyday public spaces, the Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria (DSFN) has launched a major Community and Market Outreach Programme at the popular Wuse Market, Abuja, scheduled for Saturday, December 13, 2025.

The initiative, which places grassroots engagement at the heart of disability rights advocacy, is aimed at deepening public awareness, promoting social acceptance, and pressing the Federal Government to fully implement the Intellectual Disabilities Act.

The Wuse Market outreach marks another significant milestone in DSFN’s nationwide campaign to challenge stigma, dismantle misconceptions, and advance the rights of persons living with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities.

Speaking at a press briefing ahead of the outreach, National President of DSFN, Mrs. Rose Mordi, described the programme as a deliberate effort to meet communities where they are—engaging traders, residents, caregivers, and families in direct conversations about inclusion, rights, and dignity.

According to her, the outreach will feature free assessment and counselling services for families, distribution of educational and awareness materials, and extensive public sensitisation activities within the market environment. She noted that market leaders and community members will also participate in interactive dialogue sessions designed to demystify Down syndrome and encourage acceptance at the grassroots level.

“This outreach is about breaking barriers and changing mindsets,” Mordi said. “Markets are places where people from all walks of life converge. By coming here, we are ensuring that conversations around Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities reach everyday Nigerians.”

She expressed concern that despite the existence of legal protections for persons with intellectual disabilities in Nigeria, poor implementation continues to deny many individuals access to essential services, protection, and opportunities.

“While Nigeria has a legal framework for protecting the rights of persons with intellectual disabilities, the reality on the ground tells a different story,” she stated. “We are urging the Federal Government to move beyond policy declarations and take decisive steps to activate the full provisions of the Intellectual Disabilities Act. Too many lives are being affected due to gaps in implementation.”

Mordi also made a passionate appeal to parents and guardians, urging them not to hide or isolate children living with Down syndrome due to fear, shame, or societal pressure. She emphasized that with the right support systems, children with Down syndrome can lead meaningful, productive, and fulfilling lives.

“Children with Down syndrome are capable, talented, and full of potential,” she said. “With adequate care, training, and early intervention—such as the programmes provided by DSFN—they can thrive. Families must understand that they are not alone; we walk this journey with them every step of the way.”

The Foundation further called on government agencies, civil society organisations, market associations, traditional institutions, and the media to scale up efforts toward building an inclusive society where persons with intellectual disabilities are respected, supported, and given equal opportunities to succeed.

DSFN noted that sustainable inclusion requires collective responsibility, stressing that awareness, acceptance, and implementation of existing laws are critical to ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind because of disability.

As DSFN takes its advocacy to the bustling lanes of Wuse Market, the message is clear: inclusion must move from policy to practice, and society must recognise that persons with Down syndrome are not defined by limitations, but by possibilities.

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Mimijane Foundation Marks IDPD 2025 with Christmas Outreach, Empowers Women and Children with Disabilities in Abuja

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December 14, 2025

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As part of activities to commemorate the International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) 2025, the Mimijane Foundation for Women and Children with Disabilities organized a colourful and impactful Christmas Outreach for women and children with disabilities, parents of children with disabilities, and spouses of persons with disabilities.

The outreach, which took place on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Jewel Secondary School, Kubwa, Abuja, brought together beneficiaries, disability advocates, community members, friends, and well-wishers in an atmosphere of celebration, empowerment, and solidarity.

Speaking with The Qualitative Magazine, the Founder and Executive Director of Mimijane Foundation, Ambassador Beatrice Awala Mube, described the outreach as a deeply personal and purposeful initiative aimed at giving back to the disability community while amplifying the voices and capacities of women with disabilities.

According to her, the event provided a platform to showcase the products and creativity of women with disabilities who belong to the foundation’s self-help and skill acquisition groups.

“This outreach is an opportunity for me to support fellow persons with disabilities. It is also a way of showcasing what women with disabilities can do with their hands. These products on display are made by women with disabilities, and we are calling on the public to patronize them,” she said.

Amb. Mube explained that beyond celebrating Christmas, the outreach was strategically designed to create awareness about market access and economic opportunities for women with disabilities, stressing that economic empowerment remains a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty, dependency, and discrimination.

She urged persons with disabilities to believe in themselves and recognize their inherent abilities.

“There are abilities in every person with a disability. They need to discover themselves, build their capacities, and strive not to be a liability to their families or society. Disability is not inability,” she emphasized.

The Mimijane Foundation boss also called on society at large to rise in support of persons with disabilities by promoting inclusion, respect, and dignity. She specifically advocated for the full implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, noting that many of its provisions remain largely unimplemented.

Addressing government at all levels, Amb. Mube appealed for targeted and inclusive support that considers the diverse needs arising from different forms of disabilities. She further called for tax exemptions for persons with disabilities, particularly those running small businesses.

“Many persons with disabilities are struggling to survive through small-scale businesses. Taxing them further will only worsen their situation. Government should tax the rich to support the poor and vulnerable,” she added.

Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Nifemi Adams, Sole Proprietor of JKS Kubwa, Abuja, commended the initiative, describing it as an eye-opener on the immense talents that abound among persons with disabilities.

“This event has created an opportunity for persons with disabilities to exhibit their products. What we are seeing here today is proof that talents abound among them. The quality of these products is amazing,” she noted.

Mrs. Adams also had words of encouragement for parents of children with disabilities, stressing that acceptance and love are fundamental to the growth and success of their children.

“Once you accept your child’s condition, you will love them better, and that love will help the child to thrive,” she said.

She further encouraged women and girls with disabilities to remain resilient in the face of stigma and discrimination.

“There will be obstacles, but you must believe in yourself and push through. You can overcome them,” she added.

One of the beneficiaries, Barrister Tracy Onabis, a woman with disability, urged members of the public to patronize women with disabilities not out of pity, but as a conscious act of supporting hard-working entrepreneurs.

“When you patronize women with disabilities, you are supporting their businesses and dignity. Economic empowerment reduces discrimination, and you will be amazed at what these women can achieve,” she said.

The outreach featured an exhibition of locally made products by women with disabilities, including sandals, slippers, Ankara bags, beads, Ankara clothing, tie-and-dye fabrics, pastries, liquid soap, Izal disinfectant, air fresheners, and perfumes, drawing admiration from attendees.

The high point of the event was the distribution of food and relief items, including bags of rice, groundnut oil, sanitary pads, sachets of tomatoes, noodles, and other essentials to beneficiaries, reinforcing the foundation’s commitment to inclusion and social support.

The celebration was spiced with music, dance, and fanfare, as beneficiaries and guests shared moments of joy, laughter, and unity, truly reflecting the spirit of Christmas and the essence of the International Day for Persons with Disabilities.

The event once again underscored the message that persons with disabilities are capable, productive, and deserving of equal opportunities, while calling for collective action from government, private sector actors, and society to build a more inclusive Nigeria.

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UKNIAF Closes a Chapter, Leaves a Legacy: Six Years of Transforming Nigeria’s Infrastructure Landscape

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December 14, 2025

Abuja, Nigeria — The United Kingdom–Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility (UKNIAF) has drawn the curtain on a pivotal chapter in Nigeria’s infrastructure development journey, as senior government officials, development partners, financiers and private sector leaders gathered in Abuja to reflect on six years of impact, lessons learned, and the road ahead.

Launched in 2019, UKNIAF represents the third phase in a remarkable 16-year legacy of UK Government support to Nigeria’s infrastructure sector. At the close-out event held on Tuesday, December 2, over 100 high-level stakeholders convened to celebrate achievements, interrogate challenges, and reaffirm commitments to sustaining reforms initiated under the programme.

A Catalyst for Reform and Investment

Since its inception, UKNIAF has provided targeted technical assistance and high-level advisory support to federal and state institutions across critical sectors including Power, Infrastructure Finance, and Roads. Its mission was clear: strengthen institutions, embed evidence-based reforms, and enable data-driven decision-making capable of unlocking sustainable infrastructure investment.

That mission translated into tangible results. UKNIAF supported the mobilisation of significant financing, strengthened institutional capacity, and helped create a more investor-ready environment for infrastructure delivery, particularly at the sub-national level. By focusing on systems, skills, and structures, the programme contributed to sector transformation beyond short-term interventions.

Plenary and panel discussions at the event brought together senior representatives from ministries, departments and agencies, alongside development partners and private sector actors. Speakers reflected on how reforms have taken root, how institutional capacity has evolved, and what will be required to maintain momentum in a complex and rapidly changing infrastructure landscape.

Power Sector Breakthroughs

One of the programme’s most celebrated impacts was recorded in Nigeria’s power sector, where UKNIAF played a strategic role in shaping policy, strengthening regulation, and opening new markets.

Among the landmark achievements was the development of Nigeria’s first Integrated Resource Plan, which provides a least-cost, low-carbon roadmap for power sector expansion. The programme also supported the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to deploy advanced data systems capable of monitoring tariffs, grid flows, and outages in real time—boosting transparency and regulatory effectiveness.

Crucially, UKNIAF helped pioneer reforms that enabled states to establish and manage their own electricity markets, empowering them to meet local energy needs while leveraging their unique resources.

“Not an End, But a Handover”

Speaking at the event, Frank Edozie, UKNIAF Team Lead, emphasized that the programme’s close-out marked a transition rather than a conclusion.

“UKNIAF’s close-out is not an end point,” Edozie said. “It is a handover for sustained delivery. Over six years, we worked with partners to strengthen institutions with tools that make Nigeria’s infrastructure landscape more transparent, climate-smart, and attractive to investors. That legacy now rests with our partners to sustain and grow.”

Echoing this sentiment, the Honourable Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, acknowledged the programme’s role in shaping Nigeria’s electricity future.

“The technical assistance, capacity development, and advisory services provided under UKNIAF have laid a firmer foundation for the sustainable and inclusive electricity supply industry we are building today,” the Minister stated.

UK–Nigeria Partnership Yields Results

For the UK Government, UKNIAF stands as a testament to the power of long-term partnership. Cynthia Rowe, Head of Development Cooperation at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in Nigeria, highlighted milestones that once seemed unattainable.

“I take great pride in the achievements of UKNIAF and the strong partnership between the UK and Nigeria,” Rowe said. “Together, we have supported pioneering states to take control of their electricity markets, unlocked $75 million in financing through project preparation, and designed Nigeria’s Climate Change Fund to attract global climate investment. Our shared success shows what is possible.”

Impact Beyond the Federal Level

The programme’s influence was also deeply felt at the sub-national level. Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Secretary to the State Government of Enugu State, described UKNIAF’s impact as both enduring and irreversible.

“The true impact of UKNIAF is reflected in the quality of ambassadors who have transferred knowledge and experience into national and subnational infrastructure delivery,” Onyia said. “UKNIAF may be ending as a programme, but its legacy in supporting senior decision-makers lives on.”

Sustaining the Gains

Beyond reflections, the close-out event delivered renewed commitments from partners to sustain tools, reforms, and knowledge products developed under the programme. It also strengthened relationships across the public, private, and development sectors, reinforcing a shared understanding of their collective roles in shaping Nigeria’s infrastructure future.

Participants included representatives from the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, the Federal Ministry of Power, the Ministry of Finance, NERC, the Rural Electrification Agency, the Transmission Company of Nigeria, and several state governments. They were joined by donor partners and Development Finance Institutions such as the African Development Bank, World Bank, and International Finance Corporation (IFC), as well as private sector and civil society actors active in Nigeria’s infrastructure and energy ecosystems.

A Legacy That Endures

As UKNIAF formally closes this phase of its work, stakeholders agree on one point: the programme’s greatest achievement lies not only in policies adopted or funds mobilised, but in the institutions strengthened, capacities built, and systems left behind.

In a country where infrastructure remains central to economic growth, job creation, and improved livelihoods, UKNIAF’s legacy now challenges its partners to carry the torch forward—ensuring that reforms endure, investments grow, and Nigeria’s infrastructure story continues to move from promise to performance.

About UKNIAF

The United Kingdom–Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility (UKNIAF) is an FCDO-funded, flexible, rapid-response, demand-led technical assistance programme primarily supporting the Federal Government of Nigeria.

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Nicholas Coleman

FG links Up Sightsavers, Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive Reproductive Healthcare for Persons with Disabilities

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December 14, 2025

The Federal Government has renewed its commitment to strengthening inclusive and sustainable reproductive health programmes for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), pledging closer collaboration with Sightsavers and other development partners to ensure equitable access to family planning services nationwide.

This assurance was given by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Mohammed Abba Isa, at the close-out ceremony of an inclusive family planning project targeted at women with disabilities in Abuja.

Describing the initiative as a model of disability-inclusive development, Isa said the project strongly aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and global sustainability goals. He called for the replication and scale-up of the initiative, particularly in northern states grappling with high fertility rates and limited access to family planning services.

“The success of this project shows that inclusion is not optional—it is essential,” Isa said, commending Sightsavers and all stakeholders for restoring dignity, amplifying voices, and empowering women with disabilities to make informed decisions about their health and future.

In her remarks, Prof. Joy Shuaibu, Country Director of Sightsavers Nigeria, said the Inclusive Family Planning Programme clearly demonstrated that intentional inclusion delivers measurable and life-changing impact for women and girls with disabilities.

She disclosed that the next phase of the intervention will focus on institutionalising disability inclusion within health policies, while ensuring that persons with disabilities are not just beneficiaries but active participants in shaping future health programmes.

“Equipping stakeholders with the right knowledge is one of the most sustainable investments we made through this project,” Prof. Shuaibu noted, stressing the long-term benefits of inclusive policy and practice.

Delivering a goodwill message, the Kaduna State Commissioner for Health, Hajiya Umma Ahmed, described the project as a beacon of hope that has brought tangible progress to families by guaranteeing equitable access to family planning services for PWDs.

She added that the impact of the programme will endure as a critical pillar in the nation’s collective pursuit of Universal Health Coverage, a goal Nigeria continues to strive towards.

As stakeholders reflect on the successes of the project, the call to action remains clear: inclusive healthcare is not charity—it is a right, and a necessary pathway to sustainable national development.

NCPWD, NOA Forge Stronger Alliance to Deepen National Disability Inclusion Across Nigeria

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December 10, 2025

In a renewed push to advance disability inclusion nationwide, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has taken a major step by strengthening its collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA). This followed a high-level courtesy visit by the Commission to NOA’s Headquarters in Abuja—an engagement that could reshape the national conversation on disability rights, awareness, and enforcement of existing laws.

The NCPWD delegation, led by its Executive Secretary, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, was warmly received by the Director-General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, alongside senior officials of the agency. The meeting centered on a shared objective: promoting deeper national understanding and full-scale implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, which has now fully come into force following the expiration of its five-year moratorium.

A Call for Stronger Enforcement and National Disability Database

Hon. Gufwan emphasized that Nigeria has reached a critical point where disability laws can no longer remain on paper. With the moratorium over, enforcement must become the priority.

He noted that effective implementation of the Disability Act requires more than goodwill—it demands robust data, accessible environments, and adherence to the 5% employment quota for persons with disabilities across government institutions.

“The mandate of the Commission is to promote inclusion, ensure equal opportunities, and guarantee the participation of persons with disabilities in every sector—education, healthcare, employment, and national life,” he stated.
“To achieve this, Nigeria urgently needs a comprehensive National Disability Database, stronger enforcement mechanisms, and full implementation of accessibility standards nationwide.”

Drawing from global examples, Hon. Gufwan highlighted how other nations have advanced disability inclusion through better funding, data-driven planning, and strict compliance culture. Nigeria, he stressed, must take a similar path to ensure no citizen is left behind, reaffirming the global disability mantra: “Nothing for us without us.”

NOA Pledges Nationwide Sensitization, Accessibility and Behavioral Change Campaigns

In his response, NOA’s Director-General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, reiterated the Agency’s unwavering commitment to advancing disability rights and promoting national attitudinal change.

He emphasized that empowerment begins with awareness, not handouts.

“The greatest form of empowerment is not giving money but enabling people to understand and demand their rights. The Commission cannot do it alone; it requires collective responsibility,” he said.
“This is not only about data—it is about ensuring accessibility, enforcing compliance, and making sure every Nigerian institution respects the dignity of persons with disabilities.”

Mallam Issa-Onilu disclosed that NOA’s expansive network—818 offices across the 774 LGAs and its zonal directorates—places it in a unique position to drive public enlightenment and grassroots sensitization on disability rights.

He also announced that NOA will intensify awareness campaigns on disability inclusion, integrate sign language interpretation into its programmes, and amplify disability rights messages across its platforms to reach millions of Nigerians.

A Joint Technical Committee to Drive Strategic National Action

A major outcome of the meeting was the formation of a Joint Technical Committee between NCPWD and NOA. The committee is tasked with developing actionable strategies to:

Strengthen enforcement of the Disability Act

Promote disability inclusion in all public institutions

Expand national awareness and behavior change campaigns

Ensure accessible information for persons with disabilities

Create an inclusive Nigeria where no citizen is marginalized

The Director of Social Integration at NCPWD, Mr. Lawrence Idemudia, applauded NOA for already introducing sign language interpretation in some of its campaigns. He further appealed for a monthly national awareness slot for the Commission to communicate its activities and services to the public.

A Renewed Partnership for a More Inclusive Nigeria

The meeting concluded with an exchange of publications and documents between both agencies—symbolizing renewed commitment, strengthened collaboration, and a shared national vision for disability inclusion.

As both agencies move into joint action, stakeholders are optimistic that this partnership will accelerate the long-awaited enforcement of disability rights, expand nationwide enlightenment, and deepen inclusion across all sectors.

The renewed collaboration between NCPWD and NOA signals a powerful message: Nigeria is ready to take disability inclusion beyond policy statements and translate them into visible, measurable change.

CCD Unveils Unified Niger Delta Regional Demand Charter, Pushes for Full Inclusion of Persons With Disabilities in PIA Implementation

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December 10, 2025

In a historic stride toward strengthening disability-inclusive governance in Nigeria’s oil-rich region, the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) on December 1, 2025, convened a landmark meeting in Port Harcourt for the formal presentation of the Nine Niger Delta Regional Demand Charter.
The high-level gathering brought together stakeholders from across the nine oil-producing states to address a persistent gap in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2022—its silence on the participation and benefit entitlements of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) within host communities.

Despite the PIA’s far-reaching provisions for various sectors, disability inclusion remains largely overlooked. Recognizing this critical omission, CCD mobilized an influential coalition comprising representatives of Persons with Disabilities, host community chairpersons, oil industry experts, legal practitioners, government ministries and agencies, and respected traditional rulers. The convening, supported by the Ford Foundation, was designed to harmonize voices and build a unified front to ensure PWDs are not left behind in the PIA’s benefit architecture.

Speaking at the event, the Acting Director of CCD, Mr. Godwin Unumeri, revealed the meticulous process that led to the development of the regional charter.
According to him, “What we have done at the CCD is that we’ve taken the nine separate state-level demand charters developed by persons with disabilities and combined them into a single document. We’ve identified the commonalities among all these demand charters and articulated them into a unified document, which we are going to present today.”

The workshop witnessed robust discussions as representatives from Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa, Edo, Cross River, Ondo, Abia, and Imo States thoroughly examined the consolidated document. Participants contributed diverse insights grounded in real community experiences, ensuring that the charter reflects both the immediate and long-term priorities of PWDs living in oil-producing areas.

The resulting regional charter is positioned to become the principal document formally submitted to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC). It outlines the expectations, needs, and strategic recommendations for integrating persons with disabilities into the socio-economic benefits, development frameworks, and host community structures outlined in the PIA.

Stakeholders at the meeting expressed optimism that the charter will serve as a turning point in the advocacy for disability inclusion in the Niger Delta’s oil and gas sector. The collective effort, they noted, signals the determination of PWDs and their allies to influence policy reforms and demand equitable access to resources, opportunities, and protections.

As the session drew to a close, participants reaffirmed their confidence that the issues affecting PWDs are now more effectively spotlighted and strategically embedded within the broader implementation plans of the Petroleum Industry Act. The unified demand charter, they agreed, is not just a document but a bold statement of inclusion, equity, and justice—one that places the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities at the forefront of the region’s development discourse.

With this milestone, CCD and its partners have taken a significant step toward ensuring that no disability is left behind as the Niger Delta charts a more inclusive and sustainable future.

FG Establishes Special Budget Line to Boost Disability Inclusion Across All MDAs

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December 9, 2025

8 December 2025

In a landmark move aimed at strengthening the rights, welfare, and inclusion of persons with disabilities (PwDs), the Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced a dedicated disability budget line across all ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). The step is being celebrated as a major shift from donor-dependent interventions to sustainable, government-funded disability inclusion.

The announcement was made by the Acting Director, Family Health Department, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. John Ovuoraye, during an event organised by the Voice of Disability Initiative (VDI) in Abuja to commemorate the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD).

A Historic Turning Point

According to Dr. Ovuoraye, the new budget line—approved by the Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate—will ensure that persons with disabilities are fully integrated into national planning, resource allocation, and service delivery.

He emphasized that Nigeria cannot achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) while more than 38 million persons with disabilities continue to face systemic exclusion due to inaccessible public services and inadequate funding.

“This is government funding dedicated strictly to inclusion,” he explained. “It is separate from donor contributions and the Basic Health Care Provision Fund. For the first time, each ministry now has its own disability component within the national budget.”

What the New Budget Line Will Support

Ovuoraye stated that the disability budget line will finance much-needed accessibility upgrades across health facilities and public institutions, including:

Proper disability-compliant ramps
Widened doors and accessible toilets
Colour-coded building navigation for persons with visual impairments
Trained support personnel for people with hearing and dual sensory disabilities

These measures align with the 2024 federal directive mandating all tertiary and federal health institutions to upgrade accessibility—now backed by predictable, structured funding, rather than piecemeal, ad-hoc modifications.

He noted that the initiative is anchored in the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, which obligates every ministry to implement sector-specific disability strategies.

“Every ministry has responsibilities under the 2018 Act,” he said. “This budget line allows us to fulfil our mandate without waiting for donors. It is a crucial starting point, even though the population of persons with disabilities requires more resources.”

Civil Society Demands Full Implementation

Executive Director of VDI, Catherine Edeh, commended the government’s step but urged stakeholders to move beyond policy declarations to full-scale implementation.

She stressed that persons with disabilities—especially women and girls—continue to face daily challenges including:

Higher risks of gender-based violence
Exclusion from schools
Employment discrimination
Barriers in accessing healthcare and justice systems

“These are not abstract statistics,” she remarked. “They are lived experiences. Disability inclusion is not charity; it is a right.”

Edeh called for stronger disability-inclusive justice systems, institutional reforms that embed accessibility across all sectors, and increased collaboration between government, civil society, international partners, and the disability community.

NCPWD Reaffirms Enforcement Commitment

Also speaking at the event, Director, Compliance & Enforcement at the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Mr. Nkem Uchegbulam, reiterated that legal protections under the Disability Act are active and enforceable.

“We mark this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities differently,” he stated. “The Commission will enforce all laws mandating disability mainstreaming across society.”

He noted that with the new budget line, enforcement will gain stronger institutional support.

The Call for Accountability

Chief Facilitator at Edoka Trauma Care Centre, Ene Ede, emphasized the importance of accountability and ongoing monitoring. She urged civil society organisations and the media to take an active role in holding MDAs accountable for proper implementation of the disability budget provisions.

“Persons with disabilities must be involved in all stages of project design and implementation,” she said.

A New Era for Disability Inclusion in Nigeria

The introduction of a dedicated disability budget line marks one of the most significant federal actions toward disability inclusion in recent decades. With structured funding, clearer mandates, and heightened public advocacy, Nigeria may finally be on the path toward building a society where every citizen—regardless of disability—can thrive with dignity, equity, and equal opportunity.

NCPWD, NAEC Forge Stronger Alliance to Drive Disability Inclusion Nationwide

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December 9, 2025

In a renewed push to strengthen disability inclusion across Nigeria, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has entered into a reinforced partnership with the National Association for Exceptional Children (NAEC). The collaboration marks a significant step toward improving support systems, policies, and opportunities for millions of Nigerians living with disabilities.

During a high-level strategic engagement held at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, commended NAEC for its decades of unwavering commitment to supporting exceptional children and advancing inclusive development in Nigeria. The NAEC delegation was led by its National President, Professor Julius Abiola Ademokoya, a renowned scholar and advocate for exceptional children.

A Growing Disability Population and the Call for Stronger Action

Hon. Gufwan highlighted that Nigeria’s disability population—now estimated at over 38 million persons—requires a stronger, more coordinated national response. He emphasized that inclusion cannot be achieved in silos, calling for deeper collaboration among government institutions, civil society, academia, and professional associations.

Despite progress made in recent years—including the domestication of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018 in more than 20 states—the Executive Secretary expressed concern over persistent funding constraints hindering the full-scale implementation of disability programs across the country.

He pointed to global best practices such as South Korea’s disability employment quota system, which mandates that organizations hire persons with disabilities and imposes penalties for non-compliance. Gufwan noted that adopting similar models in Nigeria would significantly enhance employment, economic empowerment, and protection for PWDs.

“No Disability Left Behind” — A Renewed Promise

Reiterating the Commission’s vision for a fully inclusive society, Hon. Gufwan declared:

“Building a highly inclusive society is not only possible, it is necessary. We must work together to ensure that no child, no adult, and no community of persons with disabilities is left behind.”

He underscored NCPWD’s commitment to championing policies that guarantee accessibility, inclusive education, employment opportunities, healthcare access, and equal participation for all persons with disabilities.

NAEC Reaffirms Commitment to Exceptional Children

Responding to the Commission’s call, Professor Julius Ademokoya reaffirmed NAEC’s readiness to deepen its collaboration with NCPWD. He noted that NAEC has, for decades, been at the forefront of advancing the welfare, skills development, and educational opportunities of exceptional children across Nigeria.

He expressed optimism that the strengthened partnership will expand inclusive education initiatives, agricultural empowerment programs, economic opportunities, and community-based support for children with special needs and their families.

Professor Ademokoya also extended heartfelt appreciation to NCPWD for its logistical and institutional support during the 2025 International Disability Day celebrations, noting that the Commission’s leadership has been instrumental in elevating the voices of persons with disabilities at both national and global platforms.

A Stronger Future for Disability Inclusion in Nigeria

At the end of the meeting, both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying joint efforts aimed at improving the conditions of exceptional children, strengthening systemic support structures, and building a nation where every individual—regardless of disability—has the opportunity to thrive.

The partnership signals a new phase in Nigeria’s disability inclusion journey, one anchored on collaboration, policy reform, and sustainable empowerment.

The NCPWD, under the leadership of Hon. Gufwan, continues to advocate for nationwide implementation of disability-friendly policies, stronger enforcement of the Disability Act, and the creation of an environment where no disability group is left behind.

NCPWD Welcomes Deafblind Community, Strengthens Its Commitment to “No Disability Left Behind”

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December 8, 2025

In a major step toward strengthening disability inclusion in Nigeria, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has officially opened its doors to the Deafblind Cluster—one of the country’s most marginalized and least understood disability groups. The historic courtesy visit took place at the Commission’s Headquarters in Abuja, signaling renewed national attention and support for persons who live with both hearing and visual impairments.

The delegation was led by the Lionheart Ability Leaders International Foundation, a frontline disability rights organization that has spent over five years working to identify, support, and unify individuals who are deafblind across Nigeria. Despite the severity of their condition, many persons within this group have remained hidden for years—shielded by families due to stigma, fear, and a lack of awareness.

According to data presented by the Foundation, 96 individuals who are deafblind have so far been identified nationwide. Disturbingly, only four of them are employed, just ten have received any form of education, and the overwhelming majority have been denied access to schooling or basic communication support. Even more heart-rending is the recent death of two members, whose health conditions went unnoticed by relatives because they could not communicate their distress.

During the meeting, the leader of the delegation, Mr. Okelola Solomon, highlighted urgent areas where government intervention is critical. These include bringing persons who are deafblind together for proper rehabilitation, ensuring their full representation within the disability community, expanding access to education and assistive services, and most importantly, revising the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act to clearly recognize the Deafblind Cluster as a distinct disability group.

He explained that the Foundation is supported by five professionals on its board and has already developed a roadmap to ensure sustainable progress for members of the deafblind community nationwide.

Responding warmly to the delegation, the Executive Secretary of the NCPWD commended the Foundation for its remarkable effort in bringing visibility to this often-overlooked community. He reaffirmed the Commission’s unwavering commitment to strengthening inclusion, stating that “the number one goal of the Commission is to include all disability clusters, ensuring that no one is left behind.”

He further emphasized that the NCPWD is currently expanding its national disability database, improving access to assistive technologies, and enhancing community-based interventions to ensure that the needs of every person with a disability—regardless of complexity—are met. The Executive Secretary praised the resilience of the deafblind community and reiterated the Commission’s belief that “there is indeed ability in disability.”

The Commission, in conclusion, formally congratulated Mr. Solomon and extended a full and warm welcome to the Deafblind Cluster, marking a new chapter of recognition, partnership, and advocacy for one of Nigeria’s most vulnerable disability groups.

The move highlights the NCPWD’s continuing role as a champion for inclusivity and an engine of change within Nigeria’s disability landscape.

Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu Disburses N1.9bn to 9,500 Persons With Disabilities Nationwide

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December 8, 2025