The leadership of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Jigawa State Chapter, has intensified calls for greater inclusion of persons with disabilities in government recruitment and access to state privileges, in a move aimed at strengthening equity and equal opportunity across Jigawa State.
The advocacy took center stage during an interactive meeting between the newly elected executives of JONAPWD and the Jigawa State Head of the Civil Service, Muhammad Dagaceri, at his office in Dutse on Tuesday.
A Call for Inclusive Governance
Leading the delegation, the Chairman of JONAPWD, Jigawa State Chapter, Adamu Tsada, said the visit was both ceremonial and strategic—formally introducing the new executive members while advancing the cause of disability inclusion in the state’s public sector.
“We are here to formally introduce ourselves as the executive members of the association and to advocate for greater inclusivity of persons with disabilities in government recruitment processes and other privileges,” Tsada stated.
He emphasized that persons with disabilities possess skills, qualifications, and the determination to contribute meaningfully to the development of Jigawa State, stressing that inclusive recruitment is not charity but a matter of rights and social justice.
According to him, ensuring disability-inclusive employment practices will not only improve livelihoods but will also demonstrate the state government’s commitment to fairness, diversity, and compliance with national disability frameworks.
Commendation for Disability Fund
While pushing for expanded opportunities, Tsada applauded the Jigawa State Government for establishing a disability support fund, describing it as a milestone in empowering persons with disabilities.
“The fund has currently exceeded N90 million,” he disclosed, noting that it has provided significant support to people with special needs across the state.
He explained that the intervention fund has helped many beneficiaries access mobility aids, education support, and small-scale business opportunities—creating pathways toward independence and dignity.
Tsada thanked the Head of Service for his open-door policy and pledged JONAPWD’s readiness to partner with the government to deepen inclusive governance.
Government Reaffirms Commitment
Responding, Head of the Civil Service Muhammad Dagaceri expressed appreciation for the visit and commended the association for its organized advocacy.
“The government is committed to ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens, including those with disabilities,” Dagaceri assured.
He reiterated that inclusivity remains a priority for the state administration and emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue between government institutions and civil society groups.
Observers at the meeting described the engagement as cordial and solution-driven, reflecting a shared interest in strengthening access to employment and institutional support for vulnerable populations.
NLC Women Committee Joins Advocacy Effort
In a related development, the Women Committee of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) also paid a visit to the Head of Service, advocating for increased representation of women in government appointments at all levels.
The Chairperson of the NLC Women Committee said the visit was intended to introduce the newly elected executive members and to reinforce the demand for broader gender inclusion in the state’s public service structure.
“We are here to formally introduce ourselves as the newly elected executive members of the Association and to advocate for increased women’s representation in government appointments,” she said.
She noted that empowering women within the public workforce enhances productivity, improves service delivery, and strengthens institutional outcomes. The committee also expressed readiness to collaborate with the Jigawa State Government to advance programs that support women workers.
Dagaceri welcomed the initiative, reiterating his commitment to supporting women-focused reforms within the civil service system.
A Broader Signal of Inclusive Dialogue
The back-to-back visits by JONAPWD and the NLC Women Committee highlight a growing momentum for inclusive governance in Jigawa State, where stakeholders are increasingly engaging government leadership through structured dialogue.
For disability advocates, the call goes beyond recruitment—it is about representation, dignity, and the right to participate fully in shaping society. For women leaders, it is about equitable access to decision-making positions and equal recognition within public institutions.
As conversations around inclusion continue to gain traction nationwide, stakeholders say Jigawa’s willingness to engage in dialogue is a promising step toward a more inclusive and representative civil service.
For many citizens watching closely, the message is clear: inclusive governance is not merely a policy aspiration—it is a responsibility that must translate into action.
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