Abuja, Nigeria — In a bold move to deepen transparency, coordination and inclusive communication within Nigeria’s disability community, the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) has officially unveiled JONAPWD EXTRA, a dynamic information and communication platform aimed at transforming engagement and service delivery for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) across the country.
The new platform was launched at the association’s National Secretariat in Abuja amid optimism and renewed energy from disability leaders, stakeholders and advocates who described the initiative as a “game-changer” in the disability movement.
A Central Hub for Information and Empowerment
Speaking at the launch, JONAPWD’s National President, Mr. Abdullahi Usman Aliyu, described JONAPWD EXTRA as more than just a communication tool. According to him, the platform is envisioned as a central hub for the dissemination of credible information, documentation of complaints, guidance on policy matters, and access to life-changing opportunities for members nationwide.
He explained that the initiative is designed to bridge longstanding communication gaps within the association’s structures and ensure that persons with disabilities — across clusters and states — have access to accurate and timely updates.
“JONAPWD EXTRA will provide members with reliable information on advocacy campaigns, policy reviews, government empowerment programmes, healthcare services, educational scholarships, skills development initiatives and social protection schemes,” Mr. Aliyu stated. “Our goal is to build a more coordinated, informed and responsive disability community.”
He emphasized that effective information management remains a cornerstone of inclusion, accountability and sustained advocacy.
Strengthening Accountability and Engagement
Beyond information dissemination, Mr. Aliyu noted that the platform will serve as a monitoring and feedback channel where members can report challenges, seek clarification, and receive structured responses from leadership. This, he said, aligns with JONAPWD’s ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and member participation.
Observers described the move as a significant step toward strengthening internal democracy, improving service delivery, and ensuring that the voices of persons with disabilities are heard and documented at all levels.
Experienced Editorial Team Appointed
In a move to reinforce credibility and professionalism, Mr. Aliyu announced the appointment of Mr. Kenneth Echiche, a seasoned journalist, as Chief Editor of JONAPWD EXTRA. Six zonal correspondents representing Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones were also unveiled to ensure nationwide coverage and representation.
Charging the newly constituted editorial board, the JONAPWD President urged them to uphold the core ethics of journalism — professionalism, diligence, objectivity and accuracy.
“The credibility of this platform will determine its impact,” he said. “We must ensure that every story published reflects truth, integrity and responsibility.”
Editorial Vision: Consistency and Community Feedback
Responding on behalf of the editorial team, Mr. Echiche expressed gratitude for the trust placed in them and described JONAPWD EXTRA as both timely and strategic.
He revealed that the platform will publish news stories twice weekly — on Wednesdays and Saturdays — except during special events. In addition, it will operate as an interactive feedback mechanism where members can channel complaints, share field updates, and access information relevant to their welfare and rights.
“This is not just a news platform,” Mr. Echiche explained. “It is a community voice. It is a bridge between leadership and members. It is a platform for solutions.”
Stakeholders Applaud the Initiative
Stakeholders, disability advocates and cluster representatives at the launch hailed the initiative as a progressive step toward strengthening inclusive information management in Nigeria.
They noted that access to timely and reliable information remains a powerful tool for empowerment, civic engagement and social inclusion, especially for marginalized communities.
According to participants, JONAPWD EXTRA has the potential to:
- Enhance coordination among disability clusters
- Amplify advocacy efforts
- Improve access to government and donor opportunities
- Strengthen documentation of rights violations
- Promote transparency within the association
They expressed optimism that the platform would serve as a unifying force across Nigeria’s disability landscape.
Reaffirming Commitment to Inclusion
The launch of JONAPWD EXTRA underscores JONAPWD’s broader commitment to protecting the rights, dignity and socio-economic advancement of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
Analysts believe the initiative comes at a critical time when conversations around disability inclusion, economic empowerment and policy implementation are gaining momentum across the country.
As the disability community continues to demand stronger representation and responsive governance, JONAPWD EXTRA is expected to provide the structured communication backbone required to sustain advocacy gains.
Members across all states were urged to actively engage with the platform, contribute stories from their communities, and utilize it as a channel for constructive participation.
With the unveiling of JONAPWD EXTRA, JONAPWD appears poised to strengthen its leadership role as Nigeria’s foremost umbrella body for persons with disabilities — ensuring that information is not only accessible but transformative.
