Abuja, Nigeria – In a determined move to bridge the educational funding gap for students with disabilities, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) made a compelling case at the National Education Loans Fund (NELFUND) office in Abuja, calling for enhanced support to ensure equitable access to education for all. Led by the Executive Secretary, Chief Ayuba Gufwan, this initiative underscores the Commission’s commitment to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities in Nigeria’s education system.
Chief Ayuba Gufwan, addressing NELFUND officials, praised the organization’s dedication to inclusive funding but highlighted the urgent need for expanded financial support as the number of students with disabilities pursuing higher education continues to grow. “Our office has received numerous requests from intelligent, motivated individuals with disabilities who are eager to build their capacity and contribute meaningfully to society. They have immense potential, but they need support to unlock it,” Chief Gufwan asserted.
The meeting aligns with the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018, specifically Sections 18 to 20, which emphasize equal access to education for persons with disabilities. Chief Gufwan pointed to the Act as a foundational framework guiding their advocacy, stressing that providing financial assistance to students with disabilities is not just a legal obligation but a pathway to inclusive development.
A Data-Driven Approach to Advocacy
Chief Gufwan shared insights into NCPWD’s commitment to data-driven strategies, designed to ensure that the Commission’s work reflects the real needs of persons with disabilities across the country. This approach, he said, enables the Commission to better advocate for policies that create meaningful impact. “Our data tells the stories of talented young Nigerians with disabilities who only need financial backing to transform their aspirations into reality,” he explained.
Calling on NELFUND to adopt a sustainable and flexible repayment plan for students with disabilities, Chief Gufwan highlighted that many students face unique challenges that make traditional loan repayment structures burdensome. “We want a repayment plan that considers these challenges, one that allows them to focus on their studies and future careers without the immediate pressure of repayment,” he suggested.
NELFUND’s Commitment to Inclusive Education
Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, the Managing Director of NELFUND, welcomed the NCPWD delegation and affirmed the agency’s commitment to providing educational loans to Nigerian youths facing financial challenges. Sawyerr emphasized that NELFUND recognizes students with disabilities as crucial stakeholders in the organization’s mission to promote educational inclusion.
“We are committed to making our loan policies as accessible as possible for students with disabilities. They represent a vital part of our mission to make education attainable for all Nigerians,” he stated. He also noted that NELFUND had established a specialized committee tasked with addressing the unique challenges faced by students with disabilities, including those who acquire disabilities unexpectedly while pursuing their education.
In a significant announcement, Sawyerr revealed the establishment of the forthcoming NELFUND Foundation, an initiative aimed at providing targeted financial support for students who develop disabilities during their studies. “The NELFUND Foundation is an additional step in our commitment to inclusive education, ensuring that unexpected challenges don’t derail the educational paths of our students,” Sawyerr said. This new initiative is expected to provide a safety net for students facing unforeseen hardships, offering them financial security and the support needed to complete their education.
A Call to Resilience and Partnership
Mr. Sawyerr concluded by emphasizing the importance of resilience, urging all students—especially those with disabilities—to stay steadfast in the pursuit of their goals. “Courage is essential to achieving success in life, and we want our students to know that we are here to support them every step of the way,” he said.
The collaboration between NCPWD and NELFUND signals a significant advancement in the fight for educational inclusion in Nigeria. For Chief Gufwan, this partnership goes beyond funding; it represents a shift in societal perspective, challenging stereotypes and advocating for the view that disabilities should be regarded as sources of strength rather than limitations.
Building a Supportive Educational Framework
The pressing need for educational funding support for students with disabilities comes against the backdrop of widespread advocacy efforts for an inclusive Nigeria. Both NCPWD and NELFUND share the vision of creating a country where students with disabilities have equal opportunities to thrive and make meaningful contributions to society.
As Nigeria continues to evolve its policies on disability rights and inclusion, partnerships like the one between NCPWD and NELFUND serve as essential pillars in building a fair and accessible education system. By joining forces, these two organizations are setting a powerful example of how collaborative efforts can pave the way for a more inclusive future.
This recent advocacy by NCPWD stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of both the government and related agencies to supporting persons with disabilities, ensuring that no student is left behind. As the NELFUND Foundation prepares for its official launch, students with disabilities across Nigeria now have renewed hope, confident that the promise of a supportive educational framework is within reach.
This initiative marks a critical step in the journey toward a society that values the potential of every individual, regardless of physical limitations. With NCPWD and NELFUND at the forefront, the future looks promising for students with disabilities in Nigeria.
