As the global community commemorates World Braille Day, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to building an inclusive, accessible, and harmonious society where persons with disabilities—particularly those with visual impairments—can live, learn, and thrive without barriers.
In a statement issued to mark the annual observance, the Commission described Braille as a powerful tool for communication, literacy, and empowerment, stressing that it remains fundamental to the dignity, independence, and full participation of blind and visually impaired persons in society.
World Braille Day, observed annually, draws attention to the enduring relevance of Braille as a means of education and expression for millions of people worldwide. According to the NCPWD, the day serves as both a celebration of progress and a reminder of the urgent need to bridge accessibility gaps confronting persons with visual impairments in Nigeria.
“Braille is more than a system of dots; it is a gateway to education, information, economic participation, and full citizenship,” the Commission noted. “For many Nigerians with visual impairments, Braille forms the foundation of lifelong learning and social inclusion.”
The Commission emphasized that the commemoration aligns with its broader mandate to ensure that no person with disability is left behind, in line with national and international disability inclusion frameworks. It highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Federal Government of Nigeria to promote Braille literacy through education and social inclusion policies, including the provision of Braille textbooks, assistive learning devices, and the training of special education teachers across the country.
While acknowledging these strides, the NCPWD stressed that access to Braille is a fundamental human right, not a privilege. It reiterated that ensuring this access is a key obligation under the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, which mandates equal opportunities and accessibility for all persons with disabilities.
To this end, the Commission outlined critical focus areas aimed at strengthening Braille literacy nationwide. These include expanding access to Braille reading and writing materials in schools and communities, supporting the training and retraining of teachers and transcribers, and fostering strong collaborations with local and international partners to improve the production and distribution of Braille textbooks.
The NCPWD also underscored the importance of developing indigenous Braille content in Nigerian languages to promote cultural inclusion and ensure that no community is excluded from learning opportunities. Additionally, the Commission pledged to promote digital Braille and assistive technologies, recognizing their growing role in modern education and information access.
In its message, the Commission commended the tireless efforts of schools, non-governmental organizations, development partners, and disability advocates who continue to champion Braille literacy and inclusive education in Nigeria.
“As a nation striving for equity and social justice, we must ensure that persons with visual impairments can access education, information, and opportunities on an equal basis with others,” the statement added.
The NCPWD concluded the World Braille Day commemoration by renewing its commitment to creating a society where inclusion is not optional, accessibility is guaranteed, and every Nigerian—regardless of disability—can realize their full potential.
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