— Calls for Stronger Implementation of Disability Act and Institutional Support for Inclusive Legal Advocacy
Abuja, Nigeria | October 14, 2025
In a move that underscores Nigeria’s growing commitment to disability inclusion and equal justice, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, has praised the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lawyers with Disabilities Forum for their outstanding contribution to advancing the rule of law and promoting the rights of persons with disabilities across the country.
Hon. Gufwan gave the commendation when members of the Forum paid a courtesy visit to the NCPWD headquarters in Abuja, describing the group as a “shining example of resilience, professionalism, and inclusive leadership” within Nigeria’s legal community.
“The Lawyers with Disabilities Forum has proven that disability is not inability,” Gufwan stated.
“You have demonstrated through your work that persons with disabilities are not just educated and competent, but also passionate advocates for justice and good governance. Your contribution to Nigeria’s legal and democratic processes cannot be overstated.”
A Renewed Push for Legislative Reform and Implementation
The NCPWD boss emphasized the urgent need for review and possible amendments to the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, noting that while the law remains a milestone in Nigeria’s human rights journey, evolving realities demand updates to strengthen its effectiveness.
According to Gufwan, only 23 out of 36 states have so far domesticated the Disability Act, leaving millions of Nigerians with disabilities unprotected under state laws. He also highlighted persistent challenges such as poor enforcementyt mechanisms, low awareness, and inadequate funding as barriers to achieving the full objectives of the Act.
“It is time for Nigeria to match legislative intent with practical implementation,” he said.
“The Disability Act must not just exist on paper — it must translate into real protection, accessibility, and empowerment for persons with disabilities, from the federal level down to the communities.”
He called on development partners, civil society organizations, non-governmental groups, and government institutions to strengthen collaboration with the Commission to improve institutional capacity and ensure sustainable funding for disability-inclusive programs, especially at the grassroots.
NBA Lawyers with Disabilities Forum Reaffirms Partnership
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Barrister Sani Moyi, representing the NBA Lawyers with Disabilities Forum, reaffirmed the Forum’s commitment to working hand in hand with the NCPWD to ensure that the provisions of the Disability Act are implemented across the federation.
He revealed that the Forum is already engaging in strategic advocacy and legal support initiatives aimed at protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, and called for stronger institutional backing from the Commission — particularly to empower lawyers with disabilities to participate effectively in the forthcoming NBA Annual National Conference.
“We are proud to be partners in progress with the NCPWD,” Moyi said.
“Our mission aligns perfectly with the Commission’s mandate — to ensure that the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities are protected and promoted through the full implementation of the Disability Law.”
NCPWD Strengthens Enforcement Drive
Also speaking during the event, Barrister Ikem Uchegbulam, Director of Compliance and Enforcement at the NCPWD, reaffirmed the Commission’s determination to ensure strict compliance with the provisions of the Disability Act, warning that organizations and institutions that continue to ignore accessibility standards and inclusion policies will face sanctions.
“The Commission is intensifying its compliance monitoring across sectors. The time has come for full compliance — not selective adherence,” he said.
“Nigeria cannot claim to be inclusive while denying access to justice, employment, education, or infrastructure for millions of its citizens with disabilities.”
Building a Culture of Inclusive Justice
The visit, observers say, marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s disability rights movement — symbolizing a strong partnership between the legal community and the NCPWD in advancing equality before the law. The NBA Lawyers with Disabilities Forum has become a formidable voice in advocating for accessible justice, non-discriminatory employment, and institutional reforms that ensure persons with disabilities can practice law and participate fully in the judicial system.
Under the leadership of Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, the NCPWD has continued to champion strategic collaborations aimed at bridging policy gaps, enhancing accessibility, and ensuring that persons with disabilities are integral to Nigeria’s governance and development agenda.
The Executive Secretary reaffirmed that the Commission would continue to engage legal professionals, state governments, and development partners in driving a rights-based approach to inclusion, rooted in equity, participation, and accountability.
“The rule of law is the foundation of inclusion,” Gufwan declared.
“When the justice system recognizes the value and capacity of persons with disabilities, the whole nation becomes stronger. Together, we can build a Nigeria where every citizen, regardless of ability, enjoys equal access to justice, opportunity, and dignity.”
The courtesy visit ended on a note of optimism, as both institutions pledged to sustain their collaboration toward achieving a truly inclusive legal and social environment for all Nigerians.
