In a bold move to advance the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), the FAECARE Foundation, through its Disability Rights Initiative Project: Accessibility, took its advocacy to the Rivers State Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation on November 14, 2024. The visit, which aimed to confront the pressing challenges of accessibility in the state, signals a pivotal moment for disability rights in Rivers State.
The meeting with the ministry’s Director of Administration, Mr. Owiriwa Darlington Esq, was an opportunity to present actionable recommendations that could reshape the future for PWDs in the region. These recommendations include:
- Advocating for the passage of a rights-based disability law specific to Rivers State.
- Establishing an independent disability commission to oversee and safeguard PWDs’ rights.
- Partnering with organizations and stakeholders to amplify the voices and inclusion of PWDs.
- Improving the accessibility of the ministry’s facilities to set a precedent for inclusivity.
- Collaborating with other government ministries to ensure public and private spaces are accessible to all.
The Call for Legal and Structural Reforms
At the heart of the FAECARE Foundation’s advocacy is the urgent call for a robust disability law in Rivers State. The organization emphasized that without legislation, PWDs would continue to face systemic discrimination and barriers that hinder their participation in society.
“Accessibility is not a privilege; it is a fundamental right,” stated a FAECARE Foundation representative. “It is time for Rivers State to step up and lead by example in protecting the rights of its citizens with disabilities.”
The proposed Rivers State Discrimination Against Persons with Disability Bill 2024, currently under consideration, promises to be a game-changer. The bill includes provisions for accessibility in public and private facilities and imposes penalties for non-compliance, signaling a shift towards accountability and enforcement.
A Ministry Committed to Inclusion
In response, Mr. Owiriwa Darlington expressed his appreciation for FAECARE Foundation’s commitment to advocating for PWDs. He described PWDs as “people with abilities” and reaffirmed the ministry’s dedication to championing their cause.
“The ministry is fully committed to ensuring that persons with disabilities are not left behind,” Darlington said. “Your recommendations are timely, and I will personally present them to the commissioner for consideration.”
He went on to highlight the ministry’s ongoing efforts, including the development of the Rivers State Disability Bill, as part of a broader strategy to address the challenges faced by PWDs.
Collaboration for a More Inclusive Future
Beyond legislative reforms, the advocacy visit underscored the importance of collaboration. FAECARE Foundation called on the ministry to work hand-in-hand with organizations, communities, and individuals to create a more inclusive society.
One of the critical suggestions was for the ministry to set an example by making its own offices fully accessible to PWDs. This symbolic step, FAECARE noted, could inspire other public and private institutions to follow suit.
A Pledge for Action
The visit culminated in a shared commitment to push for accessibility rights and foster a partnership between FAECARE Foundation and the ministry. Mr. Darlington assured that the ministry would actively support disability rights initiatives and participate in future events to promote inclusivity.
A Significant Milestone
FAECARE Foundation’s advocacy visit is a significant milestone in the ongoing fight for accessibility and equality for PWDs in Rivers State. The organization’s unwavering dedication to breaking down barriers has ignited hope for tangible progress.
As the Disability Rights Initiative Project: Accessibility gains momentum, FAECARE Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that no one is left behind. The success of this advocacy effort will depend on the willingness of policymakers, institutions, and society at large to embrace inclusivity as a core value.
The path ahead may be challenging, but with initiatives like these, Rivers State is taking bold strides toward a more inclusive and equitable future for all its citizens.
