LAFIA, September 3, 2025 – The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has strengthened its collaboration with the Federal University of Lafia (FULafia) in a renewed push to advance inclusive education and ensure that persons with disabilities have equal opportunities in Nigeria’s higher institutions.
The renewed partnership followed a courtesy visit by the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, to the institution, where he commended the university for its trailblazing commitment to disability inclusion and accessibility.
FULafia’s Commitment to Disability Inclusion
At the heart of FULafia’s inclusivity drive is its Centre for Disability Studies, a hub dedicated to promoting awareness, advocacy, and research on disability inclusion. The Centre was established to sensitize stakeholders on the importance of accessibility while positioning persons with disabilities as integral members of the academic community.
The Executive Secretary, during his visit, stressed that inclusive policies in higher institutions are not just an obligation but a necessity. He pointed to the inspiring story of a distinguished professor in a wheelchair as proof that persons with physical disabilities can excel in all fields—including medicine, engineering, and law—when given the right support.
“There is ability in disability,” Hon. Gufwan affirmed. “Every Nigerian student is qualified to study any course, regardless of their ability.”
A Welcoming Hand from the University
The Vice Chancellor of FULafia, Professor Shehu Abdul-Rahman, welcomed the NCPWD delegation warmly and pledged the institution’s unwavering commitment to inclusion. He emphasized that persons with disabilities are regarded as key stakeholders in the university’s growth and development, and that their needs remain central to the university’s policies.
Professor Abdul-Rahman highlighted that the university’s drive toward inclusivity is not just about infrastructure but also about creating a culture of equity and fairness, where no student feels left behind.
Exploring New Frontiers of Collaboration
Discussions between the Commission and the university yielded several forward-looking proposals aimed at breaking barriers for students with disabilities.
One of the most notable suggestions was the introduction of sign language as a compulsory General Studies (GST) course across Nigerian universities. According to Hon. Gufwan, such a move would not only enhance communication between persons with hearing impairments and the general population but would also strengthen national cohesion and inclusivity.
The meeting also touched on the proposed National Access to Work Scheme for persons with disabilities—a program designed to boost employment opportunities and dismantle systemic barriers that hinder professional growth.
Additionally, the NCPWD revealed plans to share critical policy documents with FULafia, including:
- The Procedure for Inclusion and Access for Persons with Disabilities in Pre-Tertiary Education
- The Framework for the National Access to Work Scheme for Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria
These documents, according to the Commission, are expected to guide universities in aligning their policies with the national disability agenda.
A Model for Other Universities
Observers note that this strengthened partnership between NCPWD and FULafia could serve as a national benchmark for other higher institutions seeking to embrace inclusive education. With its progressive initiatives, FULafia is gradually positioning itself as a leader in academic inclusivity and social responsibility.
The Executive Secretary expressed optimism that the collaboration would not only transform the lives of students with disabilities but also contribute significantly to national development by unlocking the potential of every Nigerian student.
“Our dream is for every young Nigerian, regardless of their disability, to have equal access to education, to thrive in their chosen fields, and to contribute meaningfully to society,” Hon. Gufwan said.
The Road Ahead
As conversations around inclusivity gain momentum, this renewed partnership symbolizes a shift from rhetoric to action. By working hand-in-hand, NCPWD and FULafia aim to build a system where disability is not viewed as a barrier, but as a dimension of human diversity that enriches learning spaces and society at large.
With the launch of bold initiatives, advocacy frameworks, and student-centered policies, the Federal University of Lafia is blazing a trail that other Nigerian universities are encouraged to follow.
The message from both the Commission and the university is clear: a truly inclusive society begins in the classroom, and the time to act is now.
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