In a significant move towards harnessing the power of data for societal inclusion, James David Lalu, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), underscores the importance of collaboration with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) to accurately capture and represent the realities of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
James David Lalu recently paid a visit to the Abuja office of the National Bureau of Statistics to emphasize the invaluable role that data plays in shaping policies and programs for persons with disabilities. Recognizing that statistics are the currency of the future, Lalu highlighted the need for comprehensive data collection on various aspects of disability, including employment, education, and accessibility.
During his address to the management team of the National Bureau of Statistics, Lalu emphasized that persons with disabilities are well-educated and deserve equal opportunities in society. He stressed the importance of developing methods for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data on disabilities to inform decision-making processes and drive development initiatives.
Lalu expressed confidence in the National Bureau of Statistics’ capabilities to assist the NCPWD in mapping out data on persons with disabilities, ensuring their inclusion in national development agendas. He cited the recent ratification of the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Africa as a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to promoting the rights of persons with disabilities.
Furthermore, Lalu highlighted the Accessibility Department of the Commission’s readiness to collaborate with organizations and government agencies to ensure the restructuring of public facilities to accommodate persons with disabilities. He reiterated the provisions of the Disability Act, which mandates a 5 percent employment quota for persons with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of implementation.
In response, Prince Adeyemi Adeniran, the Statistician General of Nigeria, praised Lalu for his professionalism and commitment to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities. He affirmed the National Bureau of Statistics’ willingness to collaborate with the NCPWD to accurately represent the disability community in Nigeria.
The meeting culminated in the inauguration of a 10-man Technical Working Group comprising representatives from both establishments. This collaboration marks a significant step towards leveraging data for the empowerment and inclusion of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
The Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics at the NCPWD, Mr. Soji Adewale, expressed his readiness to actively participate in data-related initiatives, highlighting the potential benefits for the Commission.
As the partnership between the NCPWD and the National Bureau of Statistics takes shape, it holds promise for driving positive change and fostering a more inclusive society for persons with disabilities across Nigeria.
