The celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) in Nigeria reached its peak on December 9, 2024, with a landmark event hosted by the Federal Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the United Nations. Held at the Reiz Continental Hotel in Abuja, the gathering brought together prominent stakeholders, disability advocates, and government representatives to address pressing issues affecting the disability community.
The theme of the event, “Leadership of Persons with Disabilities: A Pathway to an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,” resonated deeply as speakers highlighted the need for meaningful inclusion of persons with disabilities in all sectors of national life.
Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), delivered a powerful address, calling for collective action to eliminate systemic barriers that hinder the progress of persons with disabilities.
Breaking Barriers to Unlock Potential
In his speech, Hon. Gufwan emphasized that true inclusion goes beyond mere rhetoric. It requires deliberate investment in accessibility, education, and economic opportunities, as well as a firm commitment to eradicating stigma and discrimination.
“For our society to thrive, we must create an enabling environment where persons with disabilities can lead and contribute meaningfully,” he stated. “This begins with recognizing their leadership potential and breaking down the barriers that hinder their full participation.”
He further urged the nation to adopt a mindset shift, seeing persons with disabilities as assets rather than liabilities. “We must move beyond tokenism,” he said. “Inclusion is not just a moral obligation—it is a necessity for building a truly progressive nation.”
Recognizing Intersectionality
Hon. Gufwan also touched on the intersectionality of disability with factors such as gender, age, and socioeconomic status. He stressed the need for tailored, disability-inclusive policies and programs that address these overlapping challenges.
Reiterating the Commission’s commitment, he announced plans to work closely with stakeholders to promote accessibility, raise awareness, and empower persons with disabilities through impactful initiatives.
Health and Inclusion: A Critical Intersection
Representing the Honourable Minister of State for Health, Mr. John Ovuoraye delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the Ministry’s progress in implementing the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to achieving universal health coverage for persons with disabilities, highlighting ongoing initiatives aimed at improving healthcare accessibility.
Mr. Ahmad Baba, representing the Senior Special Adviser to the President on Health and Social Welfare, also reinforced the federal government’s commitment to inclusive policies. He stressed the importance of raising visibility for disability issues at both national and grassroots levels and ensuring strategic resource allocation to meet the needs of persons with disabilities.
A Day of Progress and Impact
The event was not just about speeches; it was also a demonstration of action. Assistive devices such as white canes and walkers were distributed to beneficiaries across various disability clusters, underscoring the government’s efforts to enhance the quality of life for persons with disabilities.
These gestures reflected a broader commitment to inclusion, but the speakers reminded the audience that much work remains to be done.
A Rallying Call for Unity
The event served as a rallying call for all stakeholders to amplify the leadership of persons with disabilities and work collectively toward a more inclusive and sustainable future. Hon. Gufwan’s passionate appeal echoed throughout the hall as he reiterated the need for unified action.
“Our society must embrace the leadership of persons with disabilities,” he said. “This is not just about their rights; it’s about the potential of our nation to thrive when no one is left behind.”
Sustaining the Momentum
As the IDPD celebrations concluded, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities reaffirmed its commitment to championing the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities in all sectors of life. The Commission pledged to continue fostering collaborations with stakeholders and pushing for policies that dismantle systemic barriers.
The message of the day was clear: inclusion is not optional—it is a necessity for a sustainable future. The leadership of persons with disabilities is not just a pathway to progress but a cornerstone of a truly equitable society.
