The Advocacy for Disability Act Cluster (ADAC) has lauded the Gombe State House of Assembly for passing the Gombe State Disability Protection Law, a significant step towards improving the lives and welfare of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the state. The new legislation also provides for the establishment of the Gombe State Disability Commission, which will oversee the implementation of policies promoting inclusivity, accessibility, and equal opportunities for PWDs.
This achievement, ADAC notes, reflects the growing commitment of the Gombe State government toward addressing discrimination, exclusion, and inequalities faced by PWDs. The law will offer legal protections and ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to the services they need to thrive socially and economically.
Collaborative Advocacy for Change
The ADAC coalition, a consortium of five civil society organizations (CSOs), includes:
- El-New Hope Foundation (Abia State)
- Global Youth Empowerment and Vulnerable Initiative (Adamawa State)
- Lawanti Community Development Foundation (Gombe State)
- Center for Peace Education and Community Development (CEPEACECODE) (Taraba State)
- Inclusive Friends Association (IFA) (Abuja)
These organizations have been working together under the Nigeria Strengthening Civic Advocacy and Local Engagement (SCALE) project, funded by USAID and implemented through Palladium. The coalition’s persistent advocacy efforts have been pivotal in mobilizing support for the passage of this groundbreaking legislation.
In a statement signed by Grace Jerry, ADAC Cluster Coordinator and Executive Director of Inclusive Friends Association, the coalition expressed deep appreciation for the lawmakers in Gombe for their bold step toward addressing the rights and welfare of PWDs.
“The passage of this bill signals a turning point for persons with disabilities in Gombe State,” Grace Jerry said. “It represents the culmination of years of advocacy, awareness, and engagement with government institutions, ensuring that inclusion is not just an idea but a reality in governance.”
Key Provisions of the Disability Bill
The newly passed Gombe State Disability Protection Law aims to eliminate all forms of discrimination against persons with disabilities and improve their access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and employment. It also mandates public institutions to make their facilities accessible by implementing disability-friendly infrastructure and services.
Once the Gombe State Disability Commission is established, it will:
- Monitor and enforce compliance with the disability law.
- Coordinate disability-related programs and services across sectors.
- Ensure PWDs are involved in policymaking at all levels of governance.
- Enforce penalties for non-compliance, particularly in cases of discrimination.
This legislation aligns with national and international frameworks on disability rights, including Nigeria’s Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
A Milestone for Disability Inclusion
ADAC described the bill’s passage as a monumental victory for the disability rights movement and emphasized its potential to transform the lives of PWDs in the state. For many years, PWDs in Gombe have faced challenges such as discrimination in employment, lack of access to healthcare, and exclusion from public spaces. This law, when implemented, will help address these issues and empower individuals to reach their full potential.
“This is not just a victory for the disability community but a win for the entire state,” said an ADAC spokesperson. “It sends a powerful message that every life matters, and no one should be left behind in the journey towards sustainable development.”
Urging Swift Implementation
ADAC called on the Governor of Gombe State to promptly assent to the bill and begin the process of establishing the Disability Commission. The coalition warned that delays in implementation could undermine the momentum built by the passage of the law and prolong the hardships faced by PWDs.
“We are confident that the Governor will act swiftly to sign this bill into law,” ADAC said. “It is time to translate legislative action into tangible results that will positively impact the lives of PWDs in Gombe.”
USAID and Palladium’s Role in Supporting Advocacy
The success of the advocacy campaign for the passage of the disability bill is attributed in part to the SCALE project. Through USAID’s support and Palladium’s management, SCALE has strengthened the capacity of CSOs to engage with government institutions and drive policy reforms.
“This achievement highlights the importance of partnerships between civil society and government,” said Grace Jerry. “It demonstrates that when we work together, we can create a more inclusive society where everyone has equal opportunities.”
Hope for a Brighter Future
With the passage of the bill, the disability community in Gombe State is hopeful for a brighter and more inclusive future. ADAC expressed optimism that the establishment of the Disability Commission will promote greater representation of PWDs in governance and decision-making processes, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs prioritized.
“We look forward to seeing the positive impact of this law on the ground,” ADAC said. “It is not just about legal protections—it is about creating a society where PWDs can live with dignity, participate fully in public life, and contribute meaningfully to the development of the state.”
The passage of the Gombe State Disability Protection Law marks a milestone achievement in the fight for disability rights in Nigeria. It sends a strong message that Gombe State is committed to building a society where no one is left behind. As the disability community and advocacy groups eagerly await the Governor’s assent, all eyes are on Gombe to lead the way in disability inclusion and social justice.
