In a resounding call to action, the Voice of Disability Initiative (VDI) has issued a compelling communique urging the Nigerian government to prioritize the full implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disability (Prohibition) Act 2018. This proclamation came at the conclusion of a dynamic one-day interactive session held at the VDI Conference Hall in Abuja on March 13th, 2024, to commemorate International Women’s Day, with support from AMPLIFYCHANGE.
VDI, a prominent non-governmental organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities, particularly women and girls, convened the session to assess the progress of the Act’s implementation. Participants lauded the Federal Government for enacting the landmark legislation and establishing the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities. However, they voiced profound concern over the inadequate implementation of critical provisions within the Act.
Key provisions, such as Part VI mandating public organizations to allocate at least 5% of employment opportunities to persons with disabilities, and Part II stipulating accessibility aids in public buildings, remain largely unimplemented or poorly executed. Additionally, the transitional period for modifying public structures to enhance accessibility for persons with disabilities, including those on wheelchairs, has not been effectively enforced.
Recognizing the urgent need to safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities across all spheres of life, VDI issued a series of calls to action:
- Government Oversight: VDI implored the Federal Ministry of Works & Housing, along with relevant professional bodies, to monitor accessibility requirements for public structures and ensure compliance with the Act.
- Employment Equity: The Federal Civil Service Commission and related agencies were urged to monitor the implementation of the 5% employment quota for persons with disabilities, with a gender-specific allocation to promote inclusivity.
- Legislative Review: VDI called on the National Assembly to review the Act, taking into account the unique challenges faced by women, girls, and children with disabilities.
- Sector-wide Compliance: All government agencies at the federal and state levels, as well as the private sector, were urged to embrace the principles of the Act and ensure its full implementation.
The communique, signed by Executive Director Barr. Catherine Edeh, along with prominent activists Florence Marcus, Aver Akighir, Dorothy Njamane, and others, underscores VDI’s commitment to championing the rights of persons with disabilities. As a dedicated advocate for disability rights, especially for women and girls, VDI remains open to collaborative partnerships aimed at bridging knowledge gaps and ensuring the Act’s effective implementation.
This call to action signals a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s journey towards inclusivity and equality for all citizens, regardless of ability, and underscores the imperative of collective efforts to realize the full potential of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disability (Prohibition) Act 2018.
