In a move seen as a turning point for disability-inclusive governance in Nigeria, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has launched a groundbreaking capacity-building workshop for its staff, with strong backing from Sightsavers Nigeria.
The training, which began on Friday, August 29, 2025, marks a significant step toward strengthening institutional efficiency, raising ethical standards, and improving service delivery to the more than 35.5 million Nigerians with disabilities who rely on the Commission for protection, empowerment, and inclusion.
A Call to Duty from the Executive Secretary
At the opening session, the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, delivered a passionate charge to the staff, urging them to take the training with the seriousness it deserves.
“This Commission carries the hopes of over 35.5 million Nigerians with disabilities. Every action we take as staff members directly impacts their lives. That is why efficiency, ethics, and professionalism are not optional, they are our duty,” Gufwan declared.
He emphasized that the Commission must embody empathy, efficiency, and professionalism in its operations, stressing that Nigerians with disabilities look to the NCPWD not only for protection of their rights but also for leadership in driving inclusion nationwide.
Gufwan also commended Sightsavers Nigeria for its unwavering support, describing the organization as a “reliable ally” in the struggle for disability inclusion.
Sightsavers Reaffirms Commitment
Representing Sightsavers Nigeria, Mrs. Esther Bature, Country Advocacy Coordinator, said the initiative reflects the organization’s belief that true inclusion starts with strong institutions.
“By investing in the capacity of NCPWD personnel, we are investing in the future of millions of Nigerians with disabilities. Sightsavers remains committed to this partnership, ensuring that the Commission is equipped to deliver on its mandate with excellence,” Bature stated.
Her words underscored the global nonprofit’s long-standing collaboration with NCPWD and its broader mission of strengthening systems that guarantee equity and inclusion for marginalized groups.
“A Transformational Opportunity” – Dr. Bukola
In his remarks, Dr. Adebayo Bukola, Technical Assistant to the Executive Secretary, described the workshop as a life-changing opportunity for the Commission’s staff.
“This training is not just about acquiring new skills, it is about transforming the way we serve. Each of you is a change agent, and through your work, you can directly influence how society perceives and supports persons with disabilities,” he said.
Bukola emphasized that the strength of the Commission lies in its people, and that by embracing this program, staff can help reposition the NCPWD as one of Nigeria’s most efficient and responsive institutions.
Key Areas of Training
The workshop will cover a wide range of critical areas aimed at transforming the Commission into a more transparent, ethical, and people-focused institution. These areas include:
- Ethics and Accountability – to reinforce integrity in service delivery.
- Disability Rights and Inclusive Service Delivery – to align staff with the Commission’s mandate.
- Leadership and Organizational Efficiency – to strengthen governance structures and internal processes.
- Professional Conduct and Institutional Best Practices – to improve staff performance and build public trust.
A Step Toward Stronger Disability-Inclusive Governance
The partnership between NCPWD and Sightsavers Nigeria is being hailed as a model of collaboration between government institutions and development partners. Analysts believe that by equipping the Commission’s staff with the right skills and ethical mindset, the Commission will be better positioned to drive policies, programs, and reforms that uplift persons with disabilities across Nigeria.
For the disability community, this workshop represents more than just training—it signals a renewed commitment to professionalism, accountability, and excellence in the delivery of disability services.
As Hon. Gufwan put it: “Our mission is too important to be taken for granted.”
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