In a significant show of solidarity and renewed commitment, key development partners convened in an elaborate stakeholder meeting organized by the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD). The event, held on September 4th, 2024, underscored the collective dedication to improving the lives of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria. The roundtable discussion was spearheaded by the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Chief Ayuba Gufwan, who lauded the ongoing support and collaboration between the Commission and its development partners, emphasizing that such partnerships are vital for the sustained progress of the disability community in the country.
Acknowledging Four Years of Progress and Partnership
Chief Ayuba Gufwan opened the session with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the various contributions made by development partners since the Commission’s inception. He highlighted the immense impact these collaborations have had on the welfare of PWDs, noting that the synergy between the NCPWD and its partners has yielded impressive results over the past four years. “One of our primary goals at the Commission is to maintain and strengthen the cordial relationships we have built with our development partners,” Chief Gufwan stated. “Their support has been instrumental in advancing the cause of Persons with Disabilities in many respects.”
Gufwan stressed that while much progress has been made, the challenges facing the disability community remain significant and require ongoing, concerted efforts from all stakeholders. “The needs of the disability community are vast and multifaceted,” he continued, “and like Oliver Twist, the Commission will continue to ask for more support to improve the lives of Persons with Disabilities.”
Sightsavers Nigeria: A Pillar of Support for Inclusive Development
During the roundtable, Joy Shuaibu, Country Director of Sightsavers Nigeria, took the opportunity to congratulate Chief Gufwan on his appointment and reflect on the organization’s longstanding commitment to supporting PWDs. Shuaibu detailed Sightsavers’ numerous interventions, which include initiatives in inclusive education, access to work, and healthcare services. She particularly highlighted the recent Digital Bridge program in Kano, designed to empower women with disabilities through education and skill development.
“For over 71 years, Sightsavers Nigeria has been dedicated to humanitarian work in this country, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting disability-focused programs,” Shuaibu affirmed. She also emphasized Sightsavers’ role in facilitating the production of the ‘Accessibility Regulations’ and the development of a five-year strategic plan for the NCPWD, marking a significant step toward ensuring that PWDs have equal access to public spaces and services.
Christian Blind Mission: Championing Inclusive Education
Innocent Abu Onyemaechi, representing the Christian Blind Mission (CBM), echoed these sentiments, outlining the organization’s contributions to the cause of PWDs. Onyemaechi revealed that CBM had provided substantial funding for the publication of the “Standard Operating Procedures on Inclusion and Access of Persons with Disabilities to Pre-Tertiary Education and Other Programs.” This initiative, he noted, is crucial for ensuring that children with disabilities receive the education and support they need to thrive, thereby laying a strong foundation for their future participation in society.
Disability Rights Fund: Financial Support for Humanitarian Efforts
The Disability Rights Fund, represented by Program Manager for West Africa, Theophilus Odaodu, also played a pivotal role in the discussions. Odaodu highlighted the Fund’s financial contributions to various humanitarian efforts, specifically targeting PWDs. He noted that these funds have been crucial in addressing the immediate needs of the disability community, particularly in areas where resources are scarce.
The Leprosy Mission Nigeria: Promoting Accessibility Through Language
Adding to the chorus of support, Mr. Anagboso Obinna from The Leprosy Mission Nigeria (TLMN) spoke about the organization’s efforts to make disability legislation more accessible to a wider audience. Obinna proudly announced that TLMN had successfully translated the Disability Act into three major Nigerian languages—Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba. This initiative, he explained, is aimed at ensuring that the provisions of the Act are understood by all, thereby promoting greater compliance and awareness across the country.
World Bank: Committed to Capacity Building
The World Bank, represented by Cindy Ijeoma Ikeaka, reiterated its commitment to the NCPWD, particularly in the area of capacity building. Ikeaka stressed the importance of equipping the Commission and its partners with the skills and knowledge necessary to implement effective disability policies and programs. “Capacity building is a cornerstone of our support strategy,” Ikeaka noted, “and we will continue to work closely with the NCPWD to ensure that they have the resources needed to drive meaningful change.”
TAF Africa: Advocating for Political Participation
In a forward-looking address, Dr. Jake Epelle, founder and CEO of TAF Africa, underscored the need for greater political participation among PWDs. He urged the NCPWD and its partners to encourage young PWDs to engage in grassroots politics and contest local government elections. “To make a meaningful impact, we need to ensure that Persons with Disabilities are represented in all levels of government,” Dr. Epelle asserted. “Their voices must be heard, and their perspectives included in decision-making processes.”
National Lottery Trust Fund: Extending a Hand of Friendship
The meeting concluded on a high note with Mr. Tosin Adeyanju, Executive Secretary of the National Lottery Trust Fund, extending a hand of friendship to the NCPWD. Adeyanju promised that his office would provide interventions aimed at improving the welfare of PWDs across Nigeria. “We are committed to partnering with the Commission to deliver tangible benefits to the disability community,” he said. “Together, we can achieve great things.”
A Unified Push Toward a More Inclusive Future
As the meeting drew to a close, it was clear that the renewed commitments from these development partners mark a significant step forward for the NCPWD. The collective efforts of these organizations, each contributing in their unique way, are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society where Persons with Disabilities can thrive.
Chief Ayuba Gufwan’s call for continued collaboration and support resonated with all in attendance, serving as a reminder that while much has been achieved, the journey toward full inclusion is far from over. With all hands on deck, the NCPWD and its partners are poised to make even greater strides in the years to come, ensuring that no one is left behind.
As Nigeria continues to evolve, the partnership between the NCPWD and its development partners will be crucial in shaping a future where all citizens, regardless of ability, have the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives and contribute to the nation’s prosperity. The roundtable meeting stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the shared commitment to creating a better, more inclusive Nigeria for all.
