Amidst the economic challenges gripping Nigeria, Dr. James David Lalu, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities(NCPWD), passionately advocates for a game-changing initiative. In a recent meeting with a delegation from CBM Global Disability Inclusion, Dr. Lalu highlighted the profound impact local manufacturing of assistive devices could have on alleviating the burdens faced by persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
In a press release crafted by Mbanefo JohnMichaels, the Head of Press and PR Unit at NCPWD, Dr. Lalu emphasizes that the prevailing inflation and economic downturn have plunged the disability community into trying times. He noted the skyrocketing costs of essential assistive devices, such as the Braille machine, which has surged from N300,000 to a staggering 3 million naira. This, he asserted, makes these crucial tools inaccessible to many in need.
Undeterred by the challenges, Dr. Lalu revealed the Commission’s determination to collaborate with relevant authorities to revive braille centers across the nation. The goal is to ensure that essential tools become more affordable and accessible, particularly given their pivotal role in empowering persons with visual impairments.
Beyond the immediate impact on individuals, Dr. Lalu unveiled the broader economic perspective. The local production of assistive devices, he argued, holds the potential to serve as a significant foreign exchange earner, providing a boost to Nigeria’s GDP.
Excitingly, he shared plans for Nigeria to host the African Disability Summit, a gathering of over 50 countries to deliberate on enhancing disability inclusivity. Dr. Lalu positions this summit as a key element in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” showcasing Nigeria’s commitment to leadership transition and inclusivity.
To address communication challenges, the Commission collaborates with various universities to develop sign language in different Nigerian dialects. Dr. Lalu revealed that several prominent universities have embraced this initiative, with institutions like Federal University Lafia, Nasarawa State University, Usman Dan Fodio University, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, and the University of Ilorin offering degree programs in Sign Language studies.
Impressed by the visionary approach, Anita Smeets, Interim Country Director of CBM Global, commended Dr. Lalu’s proactive stance and pledges ongoing collaboration to advance the welfare of persons with disabilities in Nigeria. Mr. Davis Bainbridge, Executive Director of CBM Global, echoed this sentiment, expressing satisfaction with the Commission’s track record and promising robust support for inclusivity initiatives.
In the ever-evolving landscape of disability inclusivity, Dr. Lalu and the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities are steering Nigeria towards a brighter, more inclusive future, where local manufacturing empowers individuals and transforms communities.
