In a decisive step toward strengthening policy implementation for persons with disabilities in Nigeria, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) and its development partner, Sightsavers, hosted a three-day planning retreat in Karu, Nasarawa State. The retreat, which commenced on Monday, November 25, 2024, brought together key stakeholders, policy experts, and disability advocates to assess existing frameworks, refine strategies, and expand operational policies.
The focus of the retreat was twofold: developing an implementation plan for existing operational policies, regulations, and frameworks, and drafting seven additional policies designed to enhance the Commission’s efficiency and impact. These efforts are expected to strengthen the Commission’s ability to deliver on its mandate of promoting the rights, welfare, and inclusion of persons with disabilities across Nigeria.
A Call to Action: Visionary Leadership at the Helm
Chief Ayuba Gufwan, the Executive Secretary of the NCPWD, inaugurated the retreat with a passionate address, urging participants to seize the opportunity to chart a progressive path for the Commission. He expressed profound gratitude to development partners, particularly Sightsavers, for their unwavering support and commitment to disability inclusion in Nigeria.
“This retreat presents an opportunity to streamline our implementation strategies, ensuring that our policies are effectively translated into action,” Chief Gufwan stated. He underscored the importance of collaboration, calling on all participants to engage fully in the discussions and planning sessions.
Chief Gufwan highlighted a significant milestone—the conclusion of the moratorium period for the implementation of disability laws and policies—marking a new era of full compliance and enforcement. “The timing of my appointment aligns with this critical juncture,” he said, emphasizing that the Commission is now better positioned to advance the rights of persons with disabilities through strategic policy enforcement.
Addressing Challenges in the Disability Rights Movement
In his remarks, Chief Gufwan did not shy away from addressing persistent challenges in the disability rights movement. He lamented the lack of robust organizational structures among some advocacy groups, noting that this weakness often undermines their credibility and effectiveness.
“Without strong, credible structures, advocacy efforts can falter, and this affects the overall impact of the movement,” he said. Nonetheless, he expressed optimism about ongoing progress, particularly in the National Assembly, where significant strides are being made to align policies and legislative structures with the principles of inclusivity and accessibility.
Strengthening Disability Inclusion: A Collaborative Effort
The retreat featured a series of workshops, discussions, and brainstorming sessions aimed at refining the Commission’s strategic direction. Participants reviewed the existing operational policies and identified key gaps in implementation. They also contributed to the development of the seven new policies, which are expected to address critical areas of disability rights and inclusion.
Stakeholders acknowledged that the success of the Commission’s efforts hinges on collaboration with government agencies, development partners, civil society organizations, and the private sector. The retreat served as a platform for fostering these partnerships, with participants reiterating their commitment to the cause of disability inclusion.
A Forward-Thinking Agenda for Disability Rights
The outcomes of the retreat are expected to bolster the Commission’s efforts to promote disability inclusion at all levels of society. By aligning its strategies with international best practices and leveraging the support of its partners, the NCPWD aims to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
Chief Gufwan’s leadership has been pivotal in driving these initiatives, with his vision focusing on translating policies into tangible actions that improve the lives of persons with disabilities.
The Path Ahead
As the retreat concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and a clear roadmap for the future. The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities reaffirmed its dedication to advancing the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities through robust policy development, strategic implementation, and effective collaboration.
The NCPWD’s efforts, bolstered by the support of partners like Sightsavers, serve as a beacon of hope for millions of Nigerians with disabilities, signaling a brighter and more inclusive future.
For the Commission, the work has just begun, but the foundation laid during this retreat promises transformative progress in the years to come.
