The Executive Secretary, NCPWD, Chief Ayuba Gufwan and Speaker, House Of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dr. Tajudeen Abbas
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has made a bold appeal to the National Assembly, calling for a significant increase in its budgetary allocation to effectively serve Nigeria’s 35 million Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Chief Ayuba Gufwan, made this case during a strategic visit to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, on Wednesday at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.
During the meeting, Chief Gufwan passionately advocated for the 2025 budget allocation to be increased from the current N4 billion to N60 billion, stressing that the new figure would empower the Commission to fulfill its core mandate and provide critical support to PWDs nationwide.
Proposed Budget Increase: A Lifeline for Millions
The Executive Secretary outlined several vital areas where the increased funds would be allocated to bring about meaningful change. These include:
- Scholarships for Persons with Disabilities
The budget increase will enable the Commission to expand scholarship programs, offering more PWDs access to higher education. “Education is the gateway to empowerment,” Gufwan noted. “These scholarships will remove financial barriers for talented individuals with disabilities who want to pursue academic dreams but are often hindered by economic challenges.” - Procurement of Mobility Aids and Assistive Devices
The Executive Secretary stressed that the proposed funding will allow the Commission to procure essential mobility aids such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, crutches, and other assistive devices. These tools are necessary to enhance the independence and quality of life for PWDs across Nigeria. - Empowerment Programs and Business Grants
“Our aim is to foster financial independence,” Gufwan explained. With the enhanced budget, the NCPWD plans to launch empowerment programs and provide business grants to help PWDs start and grow small enterprises. These initiatives will promote entrepreneurship and create jobs within the community, fostering economic inclusion. - Reconstruction and Renovation of Zonal Offices
The NCPWD aims to reconstruct and renovate its zonal offices, ensuring they meet accessibility standards and become hubs for delivering services more efficiently. The Executive Secretary highlighted that these offices are key to decentralizing service delivery and making the Commission’s presence felt across Nigeria. - Medical Outreach for PWDs
An expanded budget will allow the Commission to scale up medical outreach programs, ensuring PWDs in rural and underserved areas can access critical healthcare services. “Many PWDs face barriers to healthcare due to financial limitations or geographical constraints. This program will ensure that nobody is left behind,” Gufwan emphasized.
Budget Must Match the Needs of 35 Million Nigerians
Chief Gufwan underscored the importance of matching the Commission’s budget with the pressing needs of Nigeria’s disabled population. He stressed:
“The current allocation of N4 billion is grossly inadequate to meet the diverse and urgent needs of over 35 million Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria. An increase to N60 billion will allow us to implement impactful programs and initiatives that promote inclusion, accessibility, and economic empowerment.”
Speaker Abbas Pledges Support for the Commission’s Appeal
In his response, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, commended the NCPWD for its dedication to promoting the welfare of PWDs. The Speaker emphasized that the National Assembly remains committed to improving the lives of all Nigerians, especially vulnerable groups such as PWDs.
He assured the Commission that the National Assembly would carefully consider the request for increased funding, aligning it with the government’s agenda to promote the well-being and full participation of all citizens. “We understand that promoting accessibility and inclusion requires both policy and financial support. The House will explore ways to ensure the NCPWD has the resources it needs to deliver on its mission,” Abbas said.
The Speaker also praised the Commission’s efforts to improve the quality of life for PWDs through its existing initiatives and encouraged continued collaboration between the NCPWD and the legislature.
Commitment to a More Inclusive Nigeria
The visit underscores the NCPWD’s unwavering commitment to advancing the rights, dignity, and well-being of PWDs across the nation. Chief Gufwan reiterated that collaborative efforts with government bodies, private organizations, and the public are essential to achieving a more inclusive and equitable society for all Nigerians.
“This is not just about increasing funds; it is about investing in the future of millions of Nigerians whose voices often go unheard,” Gufwan said. “Through these initiatives, we can empower PWDs to fully participate in the economic, social, and political life of our country.”
The push for an expanded budget signals the Commission’s readiness to scale up its services and address long-standing challenges faced by PWDs. If the budget request is approved, it could mark a turning point in Nigeria’s journey toward disability inclusion and accessibility.
The NCPWD’s visit to the National Assembly is a reminder that empowering PWDs requires more than just policy frameworks—it demands deliberate action, financial commitment, and societal will. As discussions on the 2025 budget progress, the Commission’s appeal serves as a clarion call to prioritize the needs of PWDs and build a society where no one is left behind.
