In a landmark development, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has joined forces with Connected Development (CODE) to champion the implementation of the Persons with Disabilities Discrimination (Prohibition) Act of 2018. The collaboration was solidified during a meeting held on May 22, 2024, at the NCPWD headquarters in Abuja, marking a significant step forward in the quest for disability rights in Nigeria.
Connected Development, renowned for its impactful “Follow the Money” initiative, dispatched a high-level delegation led by Mr. Kingsley Agu. The group was warmly received by Dr. James D. Lalu, PhD, NPOM, Executive Secretary of NCPWD, who expressed his enthusiasm for the collaborative efforts aimed at transforming the lives of persons with disabilities across the nation.
Mr. Agu, speaking on behalf of CODE, lauded Dr. Lalu’s proactive approach and openness to partnership. “We are thrilled by the Commission’s readiness to engage with us,” Agu stated. “Our goal is to ensure the robust implementation of the disability rights law across Nigeria, and we believe that working together with NCPWD will make this vision a reality.”
Dr. Lalu echoed this sentiment, highlighting the Commission’s ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive society. “NCPWD has developed significant policies and regulations aimed at enhancing the lives of persons with disabilities,” he remarked. “We are committed to collaborating with CODE to address accessibility challenges. This partnership will include drafting a memorandum of understanding to define our collaborative framework.”
During the meeting, Dr. Lalu underscored the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach to achieving widespread adoption of accessibility regulations. He stressed the need to involve banks, educational institutions, and other public and private entities in the mission to make public spaces and services accessible to persons with disabilities. “Our efforts are directed at making all public spaces and services accessible to persons with disabilities, setting a benchmark for inclusivity,” he added.
The collaboration also aims to tackle the critical issue of inclusive education. Aisha Dijil, Technical Assistant to the Executive Secretary, emphasized the urgent need for advocacy in this area. “Our Executive Secretary often reminds us that disability should never be overlooked. There is a critical need for more advocacy in inclusive education, and we believe this partnership will help fill that gap,” Dijil noted.
CODE’s involvement brings a wealth of experience in community engagement and policy advocacy, which is expected to significantly bolster the Commission’s efforts. The synergy between NCPWD and CODE is anticipated to drive significant advancements in the implementation of the Persons with Disabilities Discrimination (Prohibition) Act of 2018, translating its provisions into tangible benefits for the disabled community.
The alliance marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s journey towards inclusivity, as both organizations pledge to work tirelessly to ensure that the rights of persons with disabilities are upheld and respected. The collaboration is not only about policy-making but also about changing societal attitudes and fostering a culture of acceptance and support for all individuals, regardless of their physical abilities.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from both parties to engage in continuous dialogue and joint initiatives aimed at promoting disability rights. This includes the drafting of a memorandum of understanding that will outline the framework for their partnership, ensuring clear and actionable steps towards their common goals.
As the news of this partnership spreads, it has been met with widespread approval from disability rights advocates and the general public. The joint efforts of NCPWD and CODE represent a beacon of hope for many, promising a future where accessibility and equality are not mere aspirations but realities for all Nigerians.
