Abuja, Nigeria – The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Chief Ayuba Gufwan, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to promoting good governance and ensuring inclusivity for Nigeria’s disability community. In a recent meeting with members of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (ROLAC) held in Abuja, Gufwan emphasized that the Commission’s existence is the result of years of sustained advocacy and relentless calls by the disability community for a more inclusive society and governance structure.
In his address to the ROLAC delegation, Gufwan expressed his firm determination to enforce a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption within the Commission, ensuring that all resources are utilized prudently and for the benefit of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). He stressed that corruption has the potential to derail the goals and objectives of any institution and vowed that under his leadership, NCPWD would operate with full transparency and accountability.
“Corrupt practices hinder progress, and we cannot afford setbacks in our mission to empower Persons with Disabilities. It is crucial that we remain vigilant and prudent with the resources entrusted to us,” Gufwan asserted.
He further encouraged the staff of the Commission to remain focused and dedicated to achieving the goals set forth to foster inclusivity and equal opportunities for the disability community. According to Gufwan, with the population of Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria on the rise, it is more important than ever to ensure that resources are effectively utilized to create tangible impacts in the lives of PWDs.
“Given the increasing number of Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria, we must redouble our efforts to ensure that no one is left behind. I am committed to leveraging every resource at our disposal to improve the quality of life for Persons with Disabilities in our society,” Gufwan affirmed.
Earlier in the meeting, the team leader of ROLAC, Mr. Danladi Prang, explained that the purpose of their visit was to reaffirm their commitment to supporting the Commission’s efforts and to explore ways to improve access to justice for Persons with Disabilities. ROLAC, a program implemented by the British Council and funded by the European Union, plays a key role in promoting the rule of law and curbing corruption in Nigeria.
Prang highlighted ROLAC’s pivotal role in the advocacy that led to the establishment of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act in 2018 and the subsequent creation of the NCPWD. He emphasized that ROLAC’s mission is not only limited to the national level but extends to advocacy and sensitization efforts at the state and local government levels to ensure the rights of PWDs are protected across the country.
“ROLAC was actively involved in the advocacy that resulted in the passage of the Disability Act, and we remain dedicated to working alongside the NCPWD to ensure its full implementation. We are also eager to partner with the Commission in commemorating this year’s International Day for Persons with Disabilities,” Prang said.
The collaboration between ROLAC and NCPWD is expected to play a significant role in enhancing access to justice for PWDs and further promoting inclusivity in Nigeria. ROLAC’s support will also aid in the Commission’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness and educate stakeholders about the rights and needs of Persons with Disabilities.
The highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the NCPWD’s Six-Point Agenda to ROLAC by Chief Gufwan. The agenda outlines the Commission’s strategic priorities in advancing disability rights, promoting inclusivity, and ensuring full compliance with the Disability Act across all sectors of society.
As preparations for the upcoming International Day for Persons with Disabilities, scheduled for December 3rd, 2024, begin, both ROLAC and the NCPWD have expressed their commitment to making the event a platform to spotlight the achievements, challenges, and aspirations of Nigeria’s disability community.
ROLAC’s continued support for the NCPWD is expected to drive meaningful change in the lives of PWDs, promoting an inclusive society where every person, regardless of their abilities, has equal access to opportunities and justice.
About ROLAC
ROLAC (Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme) is an initiative of the British Council, funded by the European Union, that works to strengthen the application of the rule of law, promote accountability, and combat corruption in Nigeria. Through its work, ROLAC supports key institutions and stakeholders in advancing justice, inclusivity, and good governance across the country.
About NCPWD
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) was established following the enactment of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act in 2018. The Commission is tasked with ensuring the full integration and inclusion of Persons with Disabilities into society by advocating for their rights, enforcing disability laws, and promoting accessibility in all aspects of national life.
