The Inclusive Friends Association (IFA) has taken another strategic step in its advocacy efforts toward advancing disability rights in Benue State with a crucial visit to Professor Jerome Andohol, the Director General of the Benue State Budget and Economic Planning Commission. The meeting, which underscores IFA’s sustained push for the passage and domestication of the Benue State Disability Bill, was led by Grace Jerry, the Executive Director of the organization.
During the discussions, Jerry presented a detailed overview of the proposed Disability Bill, emphasizing the transformative impact it would have on the lives of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Benue State. She underscored the significant benefits not only for the disability community but also for the state’s broader development agenda. “The bill, once passed, will foster inclusion, provide legal protection, and open up access to services and opportunities for PWDs,” Jerry stated.
Beyond its benefits for individuals, Jerry also stressed that enacting the law would signal Benue State’s commitment to upholding human rights and aligning with global disability inclusion standards. “The bill presents an opportunity for the state to lead in inclusive governance and development,” she added.
A major focus of the conversation with the Director General was to seek his support in advocating for Governor Hyacinth Alia to prioritize the disability agenda within the state government. The IFA team expressed confidence that with the governor’s leadership, Benue could make history by enacting a law that would provide lasting solutions to the systemic challenges faced by PWDs.
In response, Professor Jerome Andohol pledged his unwavering support for the initiative. Recognizing the importance of the proposed law, he assured the IFA team of his commitment to engaging key stakeholders, including members of the state’s legislative assembly, to accelerate the passage and enactment of the bill. “This is a critical moment for Benue State, and we must act swiftly to ensure this bill becomes law,” Andohol remarked.
He also highlighted the importance of not just passing the bill but ensuring its effective implementation. According to the Director General, successful implementation would provide a sustainable framework for disability inclusion across all sectors of the state’s economy. “Our responsibility does not end with passing the law; we must ensure it works in practice to bring real change to the lives of people with disabilities,” he said.
The visit to the Budget and Economic Planning Commission is part of IFA’s broader strategy to build a coalition of allies across government institutions in Benue State. By engaging with critical actors like Prof. Andohol, IFA aims to create momentum and gather the necessary political will to advance disability rights.
The positive response from the Director General has further energized the IFA team. Grace Jerry expressed optimism about the progress made during the meeting, emphasizing the importance of sustained collaboration. “The Director General’s commitment gives us hope. We look forward to working together to secure a future where persons with disabilities in Benue State are fully included and empowered,” Jerry concluded.
With the Director General on board and plans underway to involve the state legislature, IFA is hopeful that the Disability Bill will soon become a reality. This advocacy effort marks a significant step toward achieving legal protection, inclusion, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities in Benue State.
The meeting with the Budget and Economic Planning Commission is part of IFA’s project, funded by the National Endowment for Democracy, which supports IFA’s mission to advance disability rights and promote inclusive governance at all levels.
Benue State may soon witness a groundbreaking shift toward disability inclusion, setting an example for other states across Nigeria to follow.
