…as stakeholders applaud D-RAPID’s potential to transform lives of Persons with Disabilities
In a major push for inclusive development in Nigeria, the European Union (EU), in collaboration with the Christian Blind Mission (CBM), has officially launched a transformative three-year initiative aimed at promoting the rights and inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Delta and Benue States. The ambitious project, known as the Disability Rights Advocacy Project for Inclusive Development (D-RAPID), was unveiled on Monday in Abuja to much acclaim from stakeholders across government, civil society, and the disability community.
The project, co-funded by CBM and implemented by two leading organizations—The Albino Foundation (TAF) Africa and the Nigerian Women Trust Fund—is strategically designed to empower institutions, enhance disability-inclusive policies, and eliminate systemic barriers preventing PWDs from participating fully in all facets of life.
A Powerful Commitment to Human Rights and Inclusion
Speaking at the launch event, Ms. Winifred Aohu-Egbuson, Programme Manager for Civil Society, Youth, and Human Rights at the EU Delegation to Nigeria, emphasized the EU’s deep commitment to human rights, describing disability inclusion as a core value that must be mainstreamed across all sectors of development.
“For us in the EU, human rights are not negotiable. Disability inclusion is not charity—it’s a right. Through D-RAPID, we are supporting concrete steps to ensure that PWDs are not left behind in government programs, workplace policies, and health interventions,” she said.
She disclosed that the project, which commenced on March 3, 2025, and is scheduled to conclude by March 2028, is tailored to strengthen institutional capacities and foster systemic change that guarantees full inclusion of persons with disabilities.
“This initiative will empower government agencies like the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) and state actors to institutionalize inclusive governance and development practices. Our vision is for disability inclusion to become a norm, not an afterthought,” Aohu-Egbuson added.
D-RAPID: A Timely Intervention Post-Moratorium
For Mr. Omoi Samuel, Country Director of CBM Nigeria, the launch of the D-RAPID project could not have come at a better time. He noted that the initiative aligns with the full implementation phase of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, which officially exited its five-year moratorium period this year.
“This law is now fully in force. Unfortunately, implementation remains slow, patchy, and inconsistent across the country,” Samuel said. “But with D-RAPID, we are optimistic that significant strides will be made, beginning with the pilot states. We aim to create awareness, build technical capacity among stakeholders, and ultimately accelerate the enforcement of this vital law.”
Stakeholders Applaud the Initiative
The launch event was attended by a host of stakeholders who voiced their support and optimism for what D-RAPID promises to achieve.
Mr. Ayuba Gufwan, Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), described the initiative as “a beacon of hope” for millions of Nigerians with disabilities. He commended the EU and CBM for investing in a project that places the dignity and rights of PWDs at its core.
“This initiative will empower our Commission and all relevant stakeholders to mainstream disability inclusion in a way that is strategic, data-driven, and impactful,” Gufwan noted.
Representatives from the pilot states echoed similar sentiments.
Mr. Michael Odie, Director of Rehabilitation, Community Welfare, and Social Development at the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs, praised the EU and its partners for choosing Delta as one of the pilot locations. According to him, the project complements existing efforts by the state government to promote inclusiveness.
“Delta State has taken bold steps to protect the rights of persons with disabilities, including passing a dedicated bill. With the support of D-RAPID, we believe we can finally dismantle the remaining barriers to inclusion and ensure every citizen enjoys equal opportunity,” Odie remarked.
In Benue State, Mr. Saater Tiseer, Majority Leader of the State House of Assembly, said the launch of D-RAPID could not have come at a better time for his constituents.
“This is a significant step toward achieving equal participation for all. The technical support the project promises to offer will help government stakeholders across ministries and sectors implement policies that consider the unique needs of persons with disabilities,” he said. “It will also uplift and inspire PWDs to continue their advocacy knowing that they are not alone.”
Future Prospects and Expansion
While the D-RAPID project is currently focused on Delta and Benue, Ms. Aohu-Egbuson revealed that its long-term vision includes expanding to other states based on progress and impact assessment from the pilot phase.
“We are not just interested in short-term gains. Sustainability is key. That is why we’re laying a solid foundation for potential replication and scale-up across Nigeria,” she said.
As the launch concluded, the mood was upbeat, with stakeholders expressing a renewed sense of commitment to the fight for equality and inclusion. With strategic partnerships, focused advocacy, and a comprehensive implementation framework, D-RAPID is poised to set a new benchmark for disability inclusion in Nigeria—one state at a time.
By Agbo Christian Obiora
Executive Director, The Qualitative Magazine
