By Agbo Christian Obiora
In a passionate appeal for equity and inclusion, the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, to expedite the establishment of an FCT Commission for Persons with Disabilities. This commission, according to JONAPWD, would serve as a critical platform to protect the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs), drive advocacy, and implement inclusive policies.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday in Abuja, Comrade Mike Maikumo Gideon, the North Central Zonal Coordinator of JONAPWD, emphasized the dire need for such a commission, stating that its absence exacerbates the challenges faced by PWDs in the FCT.
“Individuals with disabilities are grappling with numerous challenges, including lack of accessibility, discrimination, limited educational and employment opportunities, and social stigma. The absence of a dedicated commission in the FCT only deepens the marginalization they experience,” Comrade Gideon explained.
A Call for Swift Action
Comrade Gideon urged the government to act swiftly in addressing these issues by establishing the FCT Commission for Persons with Disabilities. He highlighted that such a body would serve as a cornerstone for ensuring that the voices of PWDs are heard, their rights protected, and their well-being prioritized.
“The commission will be instrumental in addressing the needs of persons with disabilities, ensuring their empowerment and integration into society,” he stated.
To further expedite the process, JONAPWD proposed the appointment of a Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the FCT Minister on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities. According to Gideon, this role would play a pivotal part in driving the creation of the commission and addressing the influx of PWDs into the FCT for street begging.
Addressing Street Begging
Acknowledging the challenges posed by street begging, Comrade Gideon stressed the importance of addressing its root causes rather than merely implementing prohibitive measures.
“We support the government in discouraging street begging, as outlined by the Abuja Environmental Protection Board Act and the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018. However, we must ensure that PWDs on the streets are profiled, rehabilitated, and provided with skills training to help them earn a dignified living,” he stated.
The FCT Commission, he argued, would play a vital role in rehabilitating street beggars and integrating them into society. Furthermore, Gideon called on the FCT Administration to revamp existing rehabilitation centers, turning them into functional hubs for skills acquisition and empowerment.
An Inclusive Vision for the FCT
The proposed commission, according to Gideon, would address several key areas, including:
- Raising Awareness: Promoting the rights, capabilities, and contributions of PWDs to foster an inclusive society.
- Policy Development: Collaborating with stakeholders to implement policies that promote accessibility and inclusion.
- Support Services: Enhancing access to education, healthcare, employment, and social integration for PWDs.
- Monitoring Initiatives: Evaluating disability-related programs to ensure accountability and continuous improvement.
“This commission is not just a necessity; it is a testament to our collective commitment to upholding the principles of equality, dignity, and social justice for all members of society,” he declared.
National Appeal
JONAPWD also extended its appeal to state governors, urging them to prioritize issues affecting PWDs in their respective states. The association noted that improved conditions in the states would reduce the migration of PWDs to Abuja in search of better opportunities.
“State governments must ensure that PWDs are treated with dignity and provided with opportunities to thrive. This will significantly discourage the influx of PWDs into the FCT for street begging,” Gideon added.
December 3: A Symbolic Date
In his remarks, Hon. Yunusa Ahmadu Yusuf, a youth advocate in the FCT, underscored the importance of marking December 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), with the announcement of the commission’s creation.
“It would be a monumental step forward if the FCT Minister announces the creation of the FCT Commission for Persons with Disabilities on this symbolic day. It will demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and inspire hope among PWDs,” Yusuf said.
Yusuf also highlighted the success of similar commissions in states like Kogi, Plateau, and Nasarawa, urging the FCT to follow suit.
The Bigger Picture
Beyond the FCT, JONAPWD emphasized the need for adequate funding for the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) to enable it to meet the needs of PWDs nationwide.
“The NCPWD Act stipulates that 5% of job opportunities should be reserved for PWDs. Yet, many organizations fail to comply, leaving PWDs disillusioned. This is a discouraging trend that must be addressed,” Yusuf stated.
A Call to Unity
JONAPWD extended gratitude to individuals and organizations supporting their cause and called for collective efforts to achieve their goals.
“The establishment of the FCT Commission for Persons with Disabilities is not just about fulfilling an obligation; it is about building a more inclusive and accessible society where PWDs can contribute meaningfully to our collective progress,” Gideon concluded.
As Nigeria continues to navigate the complexities of inclusion, the voices of PWDs, amplified by associations like JONAPWD, remain a powerful reminder of the need for equity, dignity, and social justice. The call for an FCT Commission is not just a plea—it is a demand for the recognition of humanity in all its diversity.
