By Agbo Christian Obiora
In a significant push for disability-inclusive governance, the Inclusive Friends Association (IFA) has taken bold steps to strengthen its advocacy ties with the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction. On March 11, 2025, a high-level delegation from IFA met with the Honourable Minister, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, to discuss strategic collaborations aimed at enhancing the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria’s humanitarian and social intervention programs.
The advocacy visit, held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, marked a crucial milestone in IFA’s relentless pursuit of equitable opportunities for PWDs. The Honourable Minister warmly welcomed the IFA delegation, acknowledging the organization’s unwavering dedication to disability rights and inclusion. He praised IFA for its consistent advocacy across multiple sectors, including inclusive education, social protection, economic empowerment, governance, and humanitarian support.
Pushing the Boundaries of Inclusion
At the heart of the discussions was the need for intentional government policies that actively involve PWDs in national development programs. IFA highlighted the challenges faced by PWDs in accessing government interventions, emphasizing the gaps that still exist in social welfare programs, humanitarian responses, and economic empowerment initiatives.
In response, Prof. Yilwatda reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to disability inclusion, stating that the current administration, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, is determined to leave no one behind. He emphasized that partnerships with organizations like IFA are crucial to ensuring that government policies are not only inclusive on paper but also in implementation.
“The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction recognizes the importance of engaging credible advocacy groups such as IFA in our work. We are committed to policies that empower PWDs, and we believe that through strong collaborations, we can break barriers and create sustainable change,” the Minister stated.
Major Wins from the Advocacy Visit
The meeting produced several key outcomes that signal a new phase of engagement between the Ministry and IFA. These include:
- Recognition of IFA’s Work: The Minister commended IFA for its significant contributions to disability advocacy in Nigeria and assured the organization of continued government support in amplifying its impact.
- Commitment to Collaboration: The Ministry encouraged IFA to build stronger partnerships with relevant government agencies, particularly the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), to enhance the effectiveness of disability-focused programs.
- Participation in the Upcoming National Disability Summit: In a landmark move, the Minister directed his team to ensure that IFA plays a prominent role in the forthcoming National Disability Summit. IFA was tasked with mobilizing other Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) and community members to participate in the event, ensuring that PWDs have a strong voice in shaping policies that affect them.
- Follow-Up on Partnership Opportunities: The Ministry committed to reviewing IFA’s proposals and exploring potential areas of collaboration. This step signifies a deliberate effort to integrate PWDs into national humanitarian initiatives, further solidifying the government’s pledge to inclusivity.
A Step Forward for Disability Advocacy in Nigeria
This advocacy visit represents a major step forward in the quest for a more inclusive Nigeria. By fostering direct engagement with policymakers, IFA is ensuring that the voices of PWDs are heard and that their needs are reflected in national programs.
Speaking after the meeting, IFA’s Executive Director expressed optimism about the outcomes of the visit, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to working with key government institutions to drive systemic change.
“We are encouraged by the Honourable Minister’s commitment to our cause. This meeting is not just about promises; it is about laying a solid foundation for sustainable disability-inclusive policies. We will continue to advocate, mobilize, and push for reforms that will empower PWDs and secure their rightful place in national development,” he stated.
Sustaining the Momentum
IFA’s advocacy does not stop at high-level engagements. The organization remains focused on ensuring the full implementation of inclusive policies, continuously monitoring government interventions, and holding stakeholders accountable for their commitments.
As Nigeria strives to achieve greater social inclusion, partnerships between advocacy groups and government institutions are essential. IFA’s renewed collaboration with the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction sets a precedent for future engagements, reinforcing the message that disability inclusion is not a privilege but a fundamental human right.
Through sustained advocacy, strategic partnerships, and active policy engagement, IFA continues to pave the way for a society where persons with disabilities can thrive, free from barriers and discrimination. With this latest milestone, the future of disability advocacy in Nigeria shines even brighter.
