Makurdi, Benue State – In a significant push for disability rights and inclusion, the civil society organization Friends Association (IFA) has intensified its advocacy efforts by calling for the domestication of the Disability Act in Benue State. This call was prominently featured during a one-day strategic workshop held in Makurdi, the state capital, on Wednesday. The workshop brought together journalists, media professionals, and key stakeholders to amplify the campaign for the Disability Act’s domestication, a move seen as crucial for protecting and advancing the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the state.
The event, which served as a platform for robust discussion and strategy development, was underscored by a keynote address delivered by Mr. Bem Anshe, Personal Assistant to Governor Hyacinth Alia on People with Special Needs, who also chairs the Benue State chapter of the Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD). In his address, Mr. Anshe highlighted the historical context of the Disability Act, noting that the bill was initially passed in 2018 and later signed into law by then-President Muhammadu Buhari in 2019. Despite this milestone at the federal level, Mr. Anshe lamented the lack of progress in Benue State regarding the domestication of the Act, which is essential for its implementation and enforcement within the state.
Mr. Anshe emphasized that the domestication of the Disability Act would provide a legal framework for addressing the challenges faced by PWDs in Benue State, ensuring that their rights are protected and that they have equal access to opportunities. He urged the state government and all relevant stakeholders to prioritize the domestication of the Act as a matter of urgency, stressing that it is a vital step towards creating an inclusive society where PWDs can thrive.
The workshop also featured a presentation by IFA’s Executive Director, who passionately advocated for a shift in how disability issues are reported in the media. She urged journalists to adopt a rights-based approach to reporting on PWDs, highlighting the importance of using appropriate and respectful terminologies. “Expressions like ‘disabled persons,’ ‘persons living with disabilities,’ and ‘lepers’ are derogatory and should be avoided,” she stated. “Instead, correct expressions such as ‘people with disabilities’ and ‘people with leprosy’ should be used to promote dignity and respect for individuals with disabilities.”
The Executive Director further lamented the institutional barriers that continue to hinder the progress of the disability community in Benue State, particularly in the absence of a state-level disability law. She pointed out that disability affects everyone in society, directly or indirectly, whether through physical conditions or mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Therefore, she argued, the enactment and enforcement of the Disability Act are not only necessary for PWDs but are also in the broader interest of societal well-being.
One of the workshop’s highlights was a comprehensive session led by Mr. Jide Ojo, a seasoned media consultant, who presented on the topics “Crafting Effective Messages for Disability Act” and “Leveraging Digital and Social Media for Advocacy.” Mr. Ojo’s presentation provided invaluable insights into how the media can be harnessed as a powerful tool to drive the campaign for the Disability Act’s domestication in Benue State. He emphasized the need for clear, consistent messaging and the strategic use of digital platforms to reach wider audiences and galvanize support for the cause.
The workshop, themed “Exploring the Vital Role the Media Plays in Advocating for the Domestication of the Disability Act in Benue State,” saw active participation from media professionals representing various organizations across the state. Participants engaged in vibrant discussions, sharing ideas and strategies on how best to use their platforms to advocate for the rights of PWDs and ensure that the Disability Act is domesticated and enforced in Benue State.
As the workshop concluded, a media action plan was developed, outlining the steps to be taken in the ongoing campaign for the Disability Act’s domestication. This plan includes continued engagement with policymakers, public sensitization through media outlets, and the mobilization of community support for the cause. Certificates of participation were also presented to the journalists and media professionals who attended, recognizing their commitment to disability advocacy.
The IFA’s workshop marks a significant step forward in the fight for disability rights in Benue State. With the media now more equipped and engaged, the campaign for the domestication of the Disability Act is poised to gain momentum, bringing the state closer to realizing a more inclusive and just society for all its citizens.
