In a momentous celebration of diversity, inclusion, and resilience, the Abuja Association of the Deaf (AAD) marked a historic milestone with the successful hosting of the Abuja Inclusive Marathon Walk on December 3, 2024. Organized to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD), this groundbreaking event was the first of its kind in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and a bold step toward promoting the rights and visibility of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
The marathon was more than just a walk; it was a powerful statement of unity and a call for transformative solutions to ensure inclusivity for all. With the theme “Transformative Solutions for Inclusive Development: The Future Is Accessible with Sign-Language Inclusion,” the event underscored the importance of sign language and other accessible measures in shaping a truly inclusive society.
A Celebration of Unity and Inclusion
The Abuja Inclusive Marathon brought together individuals with and without disabilities, showcasing the beauty of diversity and the strength of collaboration. Participants included government officials, advocacy groups, civil society organizations, and enthusiastic volunteers. The colorful event highlighted the resilience and determination of persons with disabilities while raising awareness about the barriers they face daily.
The Chairman of the Abuja Association of the Deaf, Ayoade Beyioku-Alase, lauded the participation and support of various stakeholders, saying, “This event is a turning point for disability inclusion in FCT. It demonstrates that with collective effort, we can create a society where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive.”
Challenges Highlighted During the Marathon
While the marathon was a celebration, it also shed light on the numerous challenges faced by Deaf individuals and persons with disabilities in Nigeria. These include:
- Accessibility Barriers: Limited access to public spaces and transportation infrastructure.
- Educational Disparity: Lack of quality education and inadequate opportunities for children with disabilities.
- Employment Challenges: Limited job opportunities and career advancement prospects.
- Healthcare Inequities: Absence of accessible healthcare services and interpreters in medical settings.
- Social Stigma and Exclusion: Prevalent stereotypes and discrimination against persons with disabilities.
- Limited Early Intervention Services: Lack of support for children with disabilities to optimize their development.
- Inadequate Assistive Technology: Difficulty accessing tools to support learning and mobility.
These challenges underscore the urgent need for inclusive policies and proactive measures to address these barriers.
Advocacy for Transformative Change
To address these issues, the Abuja Association of the Deaf, in collaboration with other disability advocacy groups, issued a strong call for action. Among their demands were:
- Official Recognition of Sign Language: Recognition of Nigerian Sign Language as a legal language to foster inclusion.
- Establishment of the FCT Commission for Persons with Disabilities: As mandated by the Nigeria Disability Act of 2018, this commission would be a vital step toward protecting the rights of persons with disabilities in the FCT.
- Inclusive Education: Improved access to education for children with disabilities in both mainstream and specialized schools.
- Accessible Public Spaces: Implementation of universal design in public infrastructure.
- Employment Opportunities: Promotion of inclusive workplaces and entrepreneurship opportunities for persons with disabilities.
- Accessible Healthcare: Provision of sign-language interpreters in healthcare facilities to ensure effective communication.
- Awareness and Sensitization Campaigns: Public education to challenge negative stereotypes and foster empathy.
- Increased Investment in Assistive Technology and Early Intervention Services: Support for children with disabilities and access to affordable assistive tools.
The marathon also drew attention to the inaccessibility of the FCT Minister’s office and many Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to persons with disabilities, an ongoing issue despite repeated attempts to engage with these institutions.
A Call to Stakeholders
The association urged government agencies, policymakers, and the private sector to prioritize disability inclusion. “The Nigeria Disability Act of 2018 prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities and mandates accessibility and inclusion,” said Beyioku-Alase. “We call on all stakeholders to honor this law and ensure no one is left behind.”
Upcoming Events: Continuing the Journey Toward Inclusion
The Abuja Association of the Deaf is set to host two more events as part of the IDPWD celebrations:
- IDPWD Symposium: A platform for discussion and advocacy on disability rights and inclusion.
- Date: Thursday, December 12, 2024
- Time: 10:00 AM
- Venue: National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Maitama, Abuja
- Deaf Cultural Festival: A vibrant celebration of Deaf culture and talent.
- Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024
- Time: 10:00 AM
- Venue: Cyprian Ekwensi Arts and Culture Centre, Area 10, Garki, Abuja
The association invites everyone to participate and join in the movement to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
Conclusion
The Abuja Inclusive Marathon was a bold stride toward achieving disability inclusion in Nigeria. It was a celebration of resilience and a reminder of the work that remains to be done. As the AAD and other advocacy groups continue their efforts, this event serves as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformative change.
Together, we can create a future where every individual, regardless of ability, can achieve their full potential.
