As part of activities marking the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) on Thursday, December 4th, 2025, carried out a far-reaching sensitization outreach in Kuje Area Council, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja—an event that reinforced the Commission’s commitment to eliminating discrimination and strengthening grassroots inclusion.
Led by the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan Burki, the outreach commenced with a strategic visit to the palace of the Chairman, Kuje Traditional Council, His Royal Highness, Alh. Haruna T. Jibrin. The visit, according to the Commission, was crucial in galvanizing stronger traditional support towards protecting the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and addressing persistent cases of discrimination.
Traditional Leaders Are Key Drivers of Inclusion — ES Ayuba
Speaking during the visit, Hon. Ayuba expressed profound appreciation to HRH Alh. Jibrin for the warm reception, describing traditional rulers as “indispensable partners in the journey toward a more inclusive Nigeria.”
He praised the traditional institution for its historical role in promoting public health—particularly in supporting immunization campaigns that helped eradicate polio and other child-killer diseases that often lead to life-long disabilities.
The Executive Secretary noted that since assuming office over a year ago, the Commission has remained steadfast in championing zero discrimination, expanding disability rights awareness, and strengthening enforcement of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act.
“As we commemorate IDPD 2025, we considered it necessary to come to you—the custodians of our cultural heritage and the closest authority to the grassroots. We need stronger synergy to confront the barriers of marginalization, discrimination, and social exclusion that persons with disabilities continue to face,” Hon. Ayuba stated.
He added that disability should never be equated to hopelessness or death, urging all community leaders to unite in building an inclusive society where everyone can thrive.
Kuje Monarch Pledges Stronger Collaboration, Opens Doors to Inclusion
Welcoming the NCPWD team, HRH Alh. Haruna Tanko Jibrin (GOMO of Kuje), commended the Commission for the visit and congratulated Hon. Ayuba on his appointment, describing it as “well deserved and timely.”
The revered monarch emphasized his unwavering commitment to fairness, equality, and dignity for all residents under his leadership, stating that no one should be discriminated against because of a disability or life’s unforeseen challenges.
“There is ability in disability. My palace is open to everyone, and every subject—regardless of their physical condition—is treated equally. Discrimination has no place in Kuje,” he declared.
In a remarkable revelation, HRH disclosed that the Kuje traditional council had already established two schools dedicated to the education and empowerment of persons with disabilities—a gesture that underscores the community’s long-standing commitment to inclusion.
He assured the Commission of continuous support, noting that traditional institutions remain a powerful force in shaping attitudes, promoting awareness, and influencing positive change at the grassroots.
Development Partners Receive Commendations
Also speaking, Dr. Adebukola Adebayo, Technical Assistant to the Commission, applauded the monarch for his inclusive leadership style and reaffirmed NCPWD’s readiness to deepen collaboration with the Kuje Traditional Council.
He extended gratitude to key development partners—including the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), Christian Blind Mission (CBM), Sightsavers, and The Leprosy Mission Nigeria—for their steadfast support in enabling the Commission to conduct nationwide sensitization campaigns aimed at dismantling stigma and promoting disability rights.
Community Awareness Rally Draws Attention
The outreach climaxed with a vibrant awareness rally, as community members, disability advocates, traditional leaders, and NCPWD officials marched from the Kuje Chief’s Palace through major streets down to the Kuje Area Council Secretariat.
Chants, placards, music, and sensitization messages filled the air as the rally emphasized this year’s global IDPD call for action—“Building a society where no one is left behind.”
A Renewed Call for Collective Action
The NCPWD reiterated that tackling discrimination requires strong partnership across local governance structures, traditional institutions, civil society, and the general public. The Commission urged communities nationwide to emulate Kuje’s progressive steps in disability inclusion.
