In a renewed push to accelerate disability inclusion and unlock the vast potential of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has strengthened its strategic partnership with the Prothèse Foundation Nigeria.
The move signals a bold commitment by both institutions to ensure that PWDs are not just included, but are actively empowered to thrive across all sectors—particularly on global platforms that showcase skills, talent, and innovation.
The Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, made this known while receiving a delegation from the Prothèse Foundation during a courtesy visit to the Commission’s National Headquarters in Abuja. He commended the Foundation for its unwavering dedication to advancing the rights and visibility of persons with disabilities, especially through its support for Nigeria’s participation in the International Abilympics.
Describing the partnership as timely and impactful, Gufwan emphasized that platforms like the Abilympics provide more than just competition—they offer dignity, recognition, and global relevance for skilled PWDs.
“This collaboration reflects our shared vision of a Nigeria where persons with disabilities are given equal opportunities to excel, contribute, and compete globally,” he stated.
The Prothèse Foundation Nigeria, an accredited member of the International Abilympic Federation (IAF), used the visit to unveil an ambitious proposal for Nigeria’s participation in the 11th International Abilympics (IA2027), scheduled to take place in Helsinki, Finland, from May 10 to 13, 2027.
Leading the delegation, the Foundation’s Deputy Director, Mrs. Anwulika Enechikwu, outlined a comprehensive plan to facilitate the full participation of a 45-member Nigerian delegation at the global event. According to her, the initiative is firmly aligned with Nigeria’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018.
She noted that the Abilympics present a unique opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s growing pool of talent among persons with disabilities across multiple vocational categories, including Digital and Technical Skills, Creative and Beauty Services, as well as Service and Construction trades.
“We are eager to support the NCPWD’s vision of positioning Nigeria as a global leader in disability inclusion. Our strategic roadmap is designed to address past participation challenges while ensuring financial efficiency and overall success,” Enechikwu stated.
Beyond participation, the Foundation revealed plans to leverage the International Abilympic Federation’s Aid Scholarship Programme to ease financial burdens, alongside implementing cost-saving measures focused on international travel and accommodation logistics.
In a bid to ensure inclusivity and merit, the selection process for participants will draw from skilled PWDs across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as state-level nominees. Notably, previous Abilympics contestants will be granted automatic registration—an approach aimed at rewarding experience while strengthening Nigeria’s competitive edge.
Stakeholders say this partnership represents more than preparation for an international event—it is a strategic investment in vocational empowerment, economic inclusion, and national pride.
For many advocates, the Abilympics is not just a competition; it is a powerful platform that challenges stereotypes, shifts narratives, and proves that disability is not inability.
As the meeting concluded, both the NCPWD and the Prothèse Foundation reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing the welfare and inclusion of persons with disabilities in Nigeria. They also issued a call to action, urging government institutions, private sector players, and development partners to support initiatives that create enabling environments where PWDs can thrive.
With renewed energy and a clear roadmap, Nigeria’s journey toward global recognition in disability inclusion appears to be gaining momentum—one partnership at a time.
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