The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) received significant assurances from Leprosy Mission Nigeria (TLM) during a high-level meeting held on October 17, 2024, in Abuja. The courtesy visit was marked by discussions on expanding inclusive programs and strengthening collaborative efforts between both organizations, aimed at uplifting the lives of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) across Nigeria.
Chief Ayuba Gufwan, the Executive Secretary of the NCPWD, expressed deep gratitude for the contributions of TLM toward the disability community. He highlighted the vital role of TLM’s initiatives in promoting inclusion, particularly through education and health support programs that resonate with the aspirations of PWDs in different clusters.
A Personal Journey of Impact
In an emotional moment, Chief Gufwan reflected on the profound impact the Leprosy Mission had on his own life. He shared how missionaries from TLM made it possible for him to access education despite being diagnosed with poliomyelitis at a young age.
“It was the Missionaries from the Leprosy Mission who ensured I received an education when I was diagnosed with poliomyelitis,” Gufwan recalled with nostalgia. This personal connection underscored the significance of the meeting, reinforcing the need to strengthen partnerships that promote education and empower individuals within the disability community.
Appeal for Continued Interventions and Data-Driven Planning
Chief Gufwan used the opportunity to appeal for increased support and interventions in 2025 projects already mapped out by TLM. He emphasized that continuous collaboration is essential to meeting the evolving needs of PWDs, particularly in areas such as healthcare, education, and economic empowerment.
The Executive Secretary also stressed the importance of data collection as part of the NCPWD’s six-point agenda for disability-inclusive development. “Accurate data is crucial for adequate planning,” he noted, adding that reliable data will guide future projects and ensure that resources are allocated effectively.
Advancing Disability Inclusion Through Strategic Communication and Budgetary Allocation
Dr. Sunday Udoh, the National Director of Leprosy Mission Nigeria, commended the NCPWD for its leadership and efforts toward building an inclusive society. He identified communication strategy as a critical priority for TLM and urged the Commission to leverage this area to amplify its mandate.
Dr. Udoh further advocated for the introduction of a disability-specific allowance within the national budget. “There is a need to allocate a fraction of the national budget as a Sustainable Disability Allowance for Persons with Disabilities,” he proposed. According to Udoh, such a policy would provide financial relief for PWDs and contribute to their social and economic inclusion.
Commitment to Seamless Collaboration Through 2025
The meeting concluded with Dr. Udoh pledging TLM’s unwavering support for the Commission’s initiatives throughout 2025. He reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to working closely with the NCPWD in various capacities, ensuring that their shared vision of a more inclusive Nigeria becomes a reality.
The conversation between the NCPWD and TLM signals a renewed commitment to advancing disability rights and promoting sustainable development for PWDs. With a clear focus on inclusion, data-driven planning, and strategic advocacy, both organizations are poised to drive meaningful progress in the coming years.
A Call for Sustainable Partnerships and Inclusive Growth
As Nigeria continues to grapple with issues of inclusion, the NCPWD and Leprosy Mission Nigeria are setting a powerful example of what collaboration can achieve. The alignment of their goals demonstrates a shared belief that every individual, regardless of ability, deserves access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
Chief Gufwan’s call for expanded interventions and Dr. Udoh’s push for budgetary inclusion reflect a broader vision for national growth—one where nobody is left behind. With such robust partnerships in place, there is hope that the future will be brighter and more inclusive for all Nigerians with disabilities.
This landmark meeting between the NCPWD and TLM underscores the importance of collaboration, advocacy, and strategic planning in building a society where every individual can thrive. As both organizations work together, their efforts are expected to reshape policies and practices that affect the lives of millions of PWDs, creating pathways for sustainable development and meaningful inclusion.
