In a bold and impactful step towards promoting inclusion and active citizenship, the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) organized a one-day grassroots awareness program on November 21, 2024. Held in Ikorodu Local Government Area, Lagos State, the event focused on expanding civic space and fostering civic engagement for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). With a diverse group of participants, including PWDs and community leaders, the program served as a platform for dialogue and empowerment, ensuring no one is left behind in Nigeria’s civic discourse.
Empowering PWDs for Active Civic Engagement
The event began with a warm welcome from Christiana Njoku, who provided a comprehensive overview of the program’s objectives. In her opening remarks, Njoku stressed the critical importance of empowering PWDs to take informed action in safeguarding their rights and actively participating in civic activities. She highlighted how increasing awareness about civic space is vital to breaking barriers and ensuring that PWDs have a voice in governance and community development.
“This program is not just about raising awareness but about equipping every participant with the tools to demand accountability and advocate for their rights,” Njoku emphasized.
Understanding Disability Rights: The First Step to Change
The program’s first presentation, titled Understanding Disability Rights and Models, was delivered by CCD’s Project Officer, Aniramu Tosin. In an engaging session, Tosin unpacked the concept of disability, exploring the various models that shape perceptions and policies globally. She emphasized the rights of PWDs as enshrined in international conventions and Nigeria’s legal frameworks, such as the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act.
Tosin also tackled the persistent challenges faced by PWDs in accessing civic space, from stigmatization to systemic barriers, and offered practical solutions to strengthen the protection of their rights. “Understanding our rights is the first step toward change,” she said, urging participants to become advocates within their communities.
Civic Engagement and Inclusion: Building Bridges
The second session, Empowering Inclusion: Understanding Civic Engagement and Civic Space for Persons with Disabilities, was facilitated by Precious Osinaku. With a focus on actionable insights, Osinaku shed light on the concept of civic space and the importance of inclusive civic engagement. He explained how PWDs can effectively engage with government institutions, demand accountability, and contribute to community development.
Osinaku also addressed the challenges that civic actors with disabilities often face, including limited accessibility, discrimination, and lack of awareness. He provided strategies for overcoming these obstacles, from conducting peaceful protests to leveraging community alliances and networks.
“Civic engagement is not a privilege; it is a right that every citizen, including persons with disabilities, must exercise. By engaging effectively, we can create a more inclusive society,” Osinaku affirmed.
Hands-On Learning: Turning Knowledge into Action
One of the program’s highlights was the group work segment, where participants collaborated to develop actionable strategies for advancing civic engagement. Drawing from the lessons learned in the sessions, they crafted innovative approaches to tackle disability-related challenges in Ikorodu. The interactive session not only reinforced the day’s teachings but also empowered participants to think critically about implementing change in their communities.
A Call to Action for Ikorodu Community
In her closing remarks, Christiana Njoku expressed gratitude to the participants for their enthusiasm and active involvement. She encouraged them to use the knowledge and skills gained to initiate positive changes in their communities and beyond. “The success of this program lies in your hands. Take what you’ve learned here and make it count,” she urged.
Njoku also commended the facilitators and organizers for their dedication to promoting the rights and inclusion of PWDs. She reaffirmed CCD’s commitment to empowering PWDs across Nigeria and expanding the civic space for all citizens.
Partnerships Driving Impact
The program was funded by The Fund for Global Human Rights, in collaboration with the Action Group on Free Civic Space, underscoring the importance of partnerships in driving sustainable change. This initiative is part of a broader effort to create an inclusive society where all citizens, regardless of ability, can participate in civic life.
A Path Forward
As the participants left the event equipped with knowledge, strategies, and renewed confidence, the impact of the program was evident. The grassroots awareness campaign in Ikorodu marked a significant step toward fostering inclusion and expanding civic engagement for PWDs. It also highlighted the importance of sustained efforts and partnerships in breaking barriers and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
With this initiative, CCD has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to championing the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities, paving the way for a more equitable and inclusive Nigeria.
