By Mbanefo JohnMichaels Ikechukwu
Head, Press and Public Relations Unit, NCPWD
October 29, 2024
In a significant move toward advancing inclusion and empowerment for persons with disabilities, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) hosted a strategic meeting with the Hope Inspired Foundation for Women and Youths with Disabilities (HIFWYD) at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja. The meeting, held on October 29, 2024, aimed to solidify a collaborative framework for empowering women and youths with disabilities across Nigeria’s 774 local government areas.
The meeting was led by the Executive Secretary of the NCPWD, Chief Ayuba Gufwan, alongside HIFWYD’s leadership team, led by Esther Nwite Oluchi. The discussions focused on creating targeted programs to address the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities at the grassroots level, with an emphasis on improving access to skills development and economic empowerment opportunities.
A Vision for Local Empowerment
Speaking during the event, Esther Nwite Oluchi congratulated Chief Ayuba Gufwan on his recent appointment and reiterated HIFWYD’s commitment to supporting the Commission’s mandate. “Our organization is excited to work closely with the Commission to implement outreach programs that will impact lives in all local government areas,” Oluchi said.
She emphasized that HIFWYD’s partnership with the NCPWD aims to bridge the gaps in service delivery for persons with disabilities and foster inclusive development across communities. “We are determined to assist the Commission in extending its reach to the most vulnerable, ensuring that no one is left behind,” she added.
Strategic Goals for Grassroots Inclusion
A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation of HIFWYD’s plan to establish Disability Units within every local government area nationwide. Dr. Adebukola Adebayo, a senior member of the foundation, explained the importance of these units, which are intended to serve as hubs where persons with disabilities can access support services directly within their communities.
“This initiative is designed to create a sustainable infrastructure that ensures people with disabilities have access to the resources they need without facing barriers,” Dr. Adebayo stated. “Our goal is to build a community-driven support system that promotes independence, dignity, and economic inclusion for persons with disabilities across the country.”
Addressing the Needs of Women with Disabilities
In his response, Chief Ayuba Gufwan acknowledged the unique challenges faced by women with disabilities, particularly in accessing education, training, and employment opportunities. He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to tackling these issues, recognizing the critical role that grassroots partnerships play in creating meaningful change.
“Women with disabilities encounter multiple layers of discrimination that limit their potential,” Chief Gufwan remarked. “Through this partnership, we will work tirelessly to ensure that they have access to the education, skills, and opportunities needed to thrive.”
He expressed his gratitude to HIFWYD for its proactive approach in supporting the Commission’s efforts and stressed the importance of collaborative engagement between government agencies, non-profits, and the private sector in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities.
Launch of the Local Government Disability Framework
A key milestone of the meeting was the unveiling of the Local Government Disability Framework, a comprehensive plan developed to drive inclusive development at the grassroots level. The framework outlines strategies to ensure that persons with disabilities benefit from targeted programs and services within their local communities, with a focus on education, health, and economic empowerment.
“This framework will serve as a roadmap for sustainable development, ensuring that persons with disabilities are not excluded from national growth efforts,” Chief Gufwan said. “We are optimistic that this collaboration will lead to tangible improvements in the lives of individuals with disabilities across Nigeria.”
A New Dawn for Disability Inclusion
The partnership between the NCPWD and HIFWYD represents a promising step toward fostering an inclusive society where persons with disabilities can thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development. Both parties expressed optimism that the collaboration will drive positive change and inspire other stakeholders to join the cause.
As the meeting concluded, Chief Gufwan emphasized the importance of continuous advocacy and stakeholder engagement in promoting disability inclusion. “We must all work together—government, non-profits, and communities—to create a society where every person, regardless of disability, can reach their full potential,” he stated.
The collaboration between the NCPWD and HIFWYD reflects a shared commitment to transforming the lives of persons with disabilities and creating opportunities for their empowerment. It also underscores the importance of partnerships in tackling the challenges faced by marginalized groups and ensuring that no one is left behind.
With this partnership, the future looks brighter for persons with disabilities, especially women and youths, as they look forward to a more inclusive and supportive society. The joint effort promises to inspire hope and deliver real change across Nigeria, one community at a time.
