Kano, Nigeria – In a landmark step toward advancing disability rights and inclusion, the Kano State Government has announced plans to establish a dedicated Commission for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). This bold initiative is part of the state’s renewed commitment to implementing the resolutions of the Global Disability Summit 2025, which seeks to promote inclusive governance and equitable development for persons with disabilities across the globe.
Speaking at a press briefing, the Kano State Commissioner for Information, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, confirmed the government’s plan to create the commission, emphasizing that it will serve as a central agency responsible for disability policy coordination, advocacy, and the enforcement of disability rights under the state’s disability law.
According to Comrade Waiya, “The commission will champion the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities in Kano. It will ensure that accessibility is integrated into our education, healthcare, and infrastructure systems, as well as promote equal participation in socio-economic activities.”
The announcement is timely and significant, coming amidst increasing national calls for the full implementation of the resolutions adopted at the Global Disability Summit 2025, held earlier this year. The summit, which convened global leaders, development partners, and disability rights advocates, highlighted the urgent need to transition from promises to action, especially in developing nations like Nigeria.
Among the strong voices advocating for such implementation is Dr. Bisi Bamishe, the President of the Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN). Reacting to the Kano State Government’s announcement, she lauded the effort and urged other states to follow suit.
“The Global Disability Summit is not just a talking point,” Dr. Bamishe said. “It’s a call to action. States like Kano must lead by example by translating commitments into policies, programs, and institutions that protect and empower persons with disabilities.”
The Vice President of the Albinism Association of Nigeria, Hajia Mariya Ishaaka, echoed similar sentiments during her welcome address at a recent stakeholders’ meeting. She expressed concern over the continued marginalization of persons with albinism and other disabilities, noting that the establishment of the commission is a long-overdue step toward equity and justice.
“Our community has faced years of neglect,” she said. “We believe this commission, once operational, will offer a platform to voice our concerns, shape policies, and access services without discrimination.”
Disability advocates across the country have welcomed Kano’s decision as a positive step, pointing out that Nigeria, being a signatory to international disability rights frameworks such as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the African Disability Protocol, must institutionalize disability inclusion at all levels.
The proposed Kano State Commission for Persons with Disabilities is expected to work closely with civil society organizations, disability rights groups, and development partners to monitor and evaluate the state’s progress in implementing inclusive policies.
Observers say that if fully operationalized, the commission could serve as a model for other states, promoting accountability and inclusiveness in governance. Advocates are, however, urging the state government to follow through with legislative backing, budgetary allocation, and strong political will to avoid the commission becoming another unfulfilled promise.
As the countdown to the 2025 Global Disability Summit’s action review continues, all eyes are on states like Kano to lead the charge in demonstrating that disability inclusion is not just a matter of charity or welfare—but of rights, dignity, and development.
