In a significant move to strengthen inclusivity and empower Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria, the House of Representatives Committee on Disability Matters has entered into a strategic partnership with the Sustainable Development for African Youth Initiative (SUDAYI). The collaboration, aimed at fostering economic, social, and legislative empowerment for PWDs, was officially unveiled at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja on Thursday, March 20, 2025.
During the unveiling ceremony, the Chairman of the House Committee on Disability Matters, Hon. Bashiru Dawodu, reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to disability rights and inclusion. He emphasized that the passage of the Disability Act 2018 was a landmark achievement aimed at safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities and ensuring their full participation in national development.
“The National Assembly, in fulfilling its legislative mandate, passed the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act in 2018, which was signed into law by former President Muhammadu Buhari. This law serves as a legal framework to protect PWDs, eliminate discrimination, and create equal opportunities for them in all aspects of national life,” Dawodu stated.
The chairman further elaborated on the key provisions of the Act, which include the prohibition of discrimination against persons with disabilities, penalties for violators, and mandates for accessibility in public and private structures. He highlighted critical areas covered under the Act, such as the right to education, healthcare, employment, and personal liberties.
“Our focus is to ensure the full implementation of this law so that PWDs can access essential services without barriers. The Act mandates that both public and private institutions implement disability-friendly policies and infrastructure. This is not just a call for compliance; it is a call for social justice,” Dawodu added.
SUDAYI’s Vision for Disability Inclusion and Youth Empowerment
In her remarks, the Chairman of SUDAYI, Victoria Nyam Jim, lauded the House Committee on Disability Matters for its dedication to disability inclusion. She expressed her organization’s unwavering commitment to supporting PWDs and ensuring that young Africans, particularly those with special needs, have access to sustainable development opportunities.
“Our passion for this cause is deeply ingrained. It is not driven by personal experiences but by the firm belief that every person deserves equal opportunities to thrive,” Jim stated.
She outlined the core focus areas of SUDAYI, which include:
- Sustainable Development for African Youths
- Focus on the Development of People with Special Needs
- Youth and Women Empowerment
- Research and Innovation for Sustainable Development in Africa
Jim explained that SUDAYI’s mission is to inspire and equip African youth, especially those with disabilities, with the education, mentorship, and opportunities needed to become leaders in sustainable development.
“We aim to promote environmental sustainability, economic empowerment, and social equity. Young people must be at the forefront of building a resilient and prosperous Africa. Our programs are tailored to ensure that the most vulnerable, including women and persons with disabilities, are not left behind,” she added.
Jim also emphasized SUDAYI’s commitment to empowering young African women through education, skills training, and economic opportunities. She noted that the organization actively advocates for gender equality and the inclusion of women in leadership roles, particularly in sustainable development.
A Call for Collective Action
The partnership between the House Committee on Disability Matters and SUDAYI marks a new chapter in the fight for disability rights and inclusion in Nigeria. With legislative backing and an active civil society partnership, stakeholders believe that meaningful change can be achieved in the lives of persons with disabilities.
Hon. Dawodu urged all relevant government agencies, corporate bodies, and civil society organizations to collaborate in ensuring that the rights of persons with disabilities are upheld. He reiterated that the enforcement of the Disability Act must go beyond paperwork to become a lived reality for millions of Nigerians with disabilities.
“The journey to full inclusion is a collective effort. We must all work together to break barriers and create a society where PWDs can live with dignity, access opportunities, and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.
With this strategic alliance, the hope for a more inclusive Nigeria, where persons with disabilities are fully integrated into every aspect of society, moves closer to reality.
