In a landmark move to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive empowerment, the Nasarawa State Disability Rights Commission has entered into a strategic partnership with the Tech Inclusion for the Deaf Initiative (TIDI) to train persons with disabilities (PWDs) in vital computer and digital skills.
The partnership was officially cemented during a courtesy visit by a delegation from TIDI, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Victor Oricha, to the office of the newly appointed Executive Chairman of the Nasarawa State Disability Rights Commission, Hon. Saleh Keana.
Speaking during the visit, Oricha congratulated Hon. Keana on his historic appointment as the commission’s first executive chairman and expressed deep appreciation to Governor Abdullahi A. Sule for entrusting such a critical role to a person with a disability. He described the governor’s action as a bold statement of inclusion and a demonstration of genuine commitment to the rights and welfare of PWDs in the state.
“We are here not just to celebrate the appointment of one of our own, but also to present a vision,” Oricha said. “At TIDI, our mission is to close the technological gap among persons with disabilities, starting with equipping them with essential computer skills that enhance self-reliance, boost their chances of employment, and enable them to live with dignity. We want to train, empower, and certify them to become trainers themselves—thereby creating a chain of impact.”
The Tech Inclusion for the Deaf Initiative has, over the years, carved a niche in providing inclusive digital education across several states in Nigeria. The organisation’s approach targets underserved communities, particularly Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, but also extends to the broader disability community. Its training modules span basic computer operations, internet use, software applications, and introductory programming, with accommodations made for various forms of disabilities.
In response, Hon. Keana welcomed the partnership, describing it as timely and in perfect alignment with the core mandate of the Nasarawa State Disability Rights Commission, which is to promote the rights, inclusion, and capacity development of persons with disabilities.
“This initiative is a breath of fresh air for our community. It is not just a training—this is an empowerment that touches the future. As a commission, we are fully committed to supporting programmes and projects that uplift our people and integrate them into the mainstream society,” Keana remarked.
He further assured the TIDI team of the commission’s readiness to provide necessary support and mobilise local disability organisations and communities for maximum impact of the training programme. Keana also highlighted the importance of such partnerships in reducing societal stigma against PWDs, saying, “When people with disabilities are empowered with skills, especially in ICT, they are better positioned to challenge stereotypes, earn a living, and contribute meaningfully to development.”
Hon. Keana used the opportunity to commend Governor Abdullahi A. Sule for his disability-friendly leadership style, stating that the governor has proven to be a strong ally of the disability community in Nasarawa State.
“We are proud of our governor. He did not just talk about inclusion—he has walked the talk by appointing one of us to head this commission. His administration has shown that persons with disabilities can lead, serve, and transform systems when given the opportunity,” Keana said.
The event was marked by moments of celebration and hope, with both parties expressing optimism that the partnership would usher in a new era of digital literacy, socio-economic empowerment, and inclusive development in Nasarawa State.
Plans are already underway to kickstart the first phase of the training, which will target a diverse group of PWDs from across the 13 local government areas of the state. Participants are expected to receive starter kits and certification upon completion of the programme, with high-performing trainees being considered for mentorship and trainer roles.
This partnership is not only a milestone for Nasarawa State but also a model for other states across Nigeria to emulate—demonstrating how collaborative efforts can create real, inclusive change for persons with disabilities.
