By Agbo Christian Obiora
In a bold call for transformative inclusion within Nigeria’s security architecture, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Mr. Ayuba Gufwan, has urged the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to go beyond symbolic gestures and meaningfully integrate persons with disabilities—especially those who are deaf—into its workforce.
Mr. Gufwan made this passionate appeal on Wednesday in Abuja during the graduation ceremony of NSCDC personnel who recently completed an intensive training in sign language communication. The event, hailed as a milestone in the Corps’ journey toward inclusive service delivery, attracted key stakeholders in the disability rights movement, as well as security and civil society representatives.
Breaking Communication Barriers in Security
Speaking at the event, Mr. Gufwan applauded the NSCDC for the foresight to train its officers in sign language, noting that this step significantly bridges the longstanding communication gap between security operatives and the deaf community.
“Security is a fundamental right,” he declared. “It must be made accessible to every citizen, regardless of disability. When security operatives are equipped to communicate with and understand persons with disabilities, especially those within the Deaf community, we move closer to realizing a society that is safe, inclusive, and equitable.”
He emphasized that while the sign language training represents progress, genuine inclusion in security must go beyond communication. It must also address systemic employment barriers that prevent persons with disabilities from serving within the nation’s security institutions.
‘Employ the Deaf’ – A Powerful Appeal
In what many described as the most poignant moment of the event, the NCPWD boss issued a direct and respectful appeal to the leadership of the NSCDC to employ deaf Nigerians who are qualified and capable of serving.
“I use this opportunity to respectfully call on the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to employ trained deaf individuals into the Corps,” Gufwan urged. “Furthermore, I implore you to give full effect to the 5 per cent employment quota for Persons with Disabilities in your organization.”
He reminded the Corps of its obligations under existing legislation, particularly the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, and the Public Service Rules (Revised 2021), which mandate inclusive hiring practices across government agencies.
PWDs Bring Courage, Resilience, and Talent to Public Service
Highlighting the immense value that persons with disabilities offer to public service, Gufwan asserted that the inclusion of deaf individuals would not only fulfill legal requirements but also enhance the operational efficiency and cultural richness of the Corps.
“The Corps will be greatly enriched by the courage, resilience, and talent that persons with disabilities bring,” he said. “This is about leveraging untapped potential, building trust with the disability community, and leading by example in upholding the values of accessibility, representation, and fairness.”
He further called for continuous training of NSCDC personnel, urging the agency to institutionalize sign language learning and make it a standard across its ranks. “Let this training not be a one-off,” he said, “but a foundation for deeper cooperation, regular interaction, and systemic change.”
Ambassadors of Inclusion: A Charge to Graduating Officers
Turning to the graduating officers, Gufwan delivered a heartfelt message of commendation and responsibility. “To the graduating officers, I extend my heartfelt congratulations. You are now Ambassadors of Inclusion,” he said. “The knowledge and skills you have gained will not only enhance your professional competence, but will also transform the experiences of many Nigerians who seek security and justice.”
He urged them to take their roles seriously and use their newfound skills to create a more welcoming and dignified experience for persons with hearing impairments.
A Call for National Collaboration on Inclusive Security
Mr. Gufwan also used the occasion to call for sustained inter-agency collaboration aimed at building a more inclusive national security framework. “Let this graduation not be the end,” he said, “but the beginning of deeper collaboration between our institutions in the shared mission of advancing inclusive security in Nigeria.”
He assured that the NCPWD remains committed to supporting security agencies with technical expertise, policy guidance, and capacity-building programs to mainstream disability inclusion.
Digital Inclusion and Recognition for Data Lead Africa
In a nod to the role of digital innovation and private sector collaboration, Gufwan commended Data Lead Africa for its pioneering role in promoting digital inclusion and for supporting the sign language training initiative. He noted that their efforts exemplify how cross-sector partnerships can accelerate the inclusion agenda in both policy and practice.
A Turning Point in Disability-Inclusive Security?
Observers say the event may signal a turning point in how Nigeria approaches disability-inclusive governance, particularly within the security sector—an area that has historically been inaccessible to many Nigerians with disabilities.
With the NCPWD’s call now echoing in the corridors of one of Nigeria’s key paramilitary agencies, attention turns to how the NSCDC and other security agencies will respond. Will they rise to the occasion, fulfill legal obligations, and unlock the potential of thousands of capable Nigerians with disabilities?
For now, one thing is clear: the push for full inclusion is no longer optional—it is a constitutional, moral, and societal imperative.
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