By Ishaku Kigbu, Head, Media & Publicity, NCPWD
January 14, 2025
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) and its longstanding development partner, Sightsavers, have pledged to intensify their collaboration to accelerate the inclusion of persons with disabilities in Nigeria. This renewed commitment follows a high-profile courtesy visit by Sightsavers’ senior leadership to the NCPWD headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, signaling a renewed focus on disability empowerment in Nigeria.
The delegation, led by Dr. Joyce Shuaibu, Country Director of Sightsavers, and Boubacar Dicko, the organization’s West Africa Regional Director, engaged with the Executive Secretary of the NCPWD, Ayuba Gufwan, and the Commission’s management team. During the meeting, both organizations reaffirmed their shared vision of promoting the rights, dignity, and inclusion of persons with disabilities in all sectors of Nigerian society.
In his remarks, Executive Secretary Ayuba Gufwan reiterated the NCPWD’s dedication to addressing the diverse needs of Nigeria’s estimated 35 million persons with disabilities, many of whom face significant barriers to education, employment, and social participation. He emphasized that this year, the Commission would focus on delivering measurable results and action in key areas such as mobility, private sector engagement, and resource transparency.
“Mobility is at the core of disability inclusion,” Gufwan explained. “Without the ability to move freely, persons with disabilities cannot access education, healthcare, or employment opportunities. We are committed to ensuring that no Nigerian with a disability is left behind. We are also working closely with the private sector to increase corporate social responsibility efforts, particularly in empowering persons with disabilities through jobs, training, and accessible services.”
Gufwan’s statement echoed the NCPWD’s broader strategy to create an inclusive society where every Nigerian, regardless of their abilities, can contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress.
Dr. Joyce Shuaibu, the Country Director of Sightsavers, expressed deep appreciation for the NCPWD’s continuous support in advancing disability inclusion. She shared that, in the past year, Sightsavers had made notable strides in empowering persons with disabilities through vocational training programs and providing financial support. In a significant initiative, Sightsavers facilitated the distribution of ₦50,000 start-up funds to 150,000 individuals with disabilities, helping them establish small businesses and become economically independent.
“We are committed to ensuring that the NCPWD’s strategic plan is not just a theoretical document but a roadmap for real, impactful change. Our goal is to advocate for greater government investment in disability-inclusive policies and initiatives, particularly in education, healthcare, and digital accessibility,” Dr. Shuaibu stated. “We have seen the difference that inclusive education and employment can make in the lives of persons with disabilities, and we will continue to push for progress in these areas.”
Boubacar Dicko, the West Africa Regional Director of Sightsavers, drew on his recent visit to Yauri in Kebbi State to underscore the urgent need for mobility aids for persons with disabilities, especially polio survivors. He highlighted how mobility is not just a matter of physical movement, but a key enabler of societal participation.
“Access to mobility is fundamental for independence and dignity,” Dicko said. “Persons with disabilities need the tools to access education, gain employment, and participate fully in society. Without mobility aids, they are often left on the margins, unable to contribute to national development. This is something we must change.”
The discussions between the two organizations also focused on advancing digital literacy programs, scaling up vocational training initiatives, and advocating for the increased allocation of resources to support persons with disabilities. Both the NCPWD and Sightsavers are committed to creating a more inclusive environment through sustained collaboration and action.
A major milestone in their shared mission will come on January 29th, when the NCPWD will officially launch the Inclusive Employment Initiative. This landmark project is designed to open up dignified job opportunities for persons with disabilities and help them thrive in the workforce.
“The Inclusive Employment Initiative will be a game-changer,” Gufwan said. “We are not just creating jobs, we are creating pathways to self-sufficiency, dignity, and equal opportunities for Nigerians with disabilities. This initiative is part of our broader goal to build an inclusive society where everyone can succeed, regardless of their abilities.”
As both organizations look forward to a year of impactful projects and initiatives, they are united in their determination to break down the barriers that hinder the full participation of persons with disabilities in Nigerian society. With the NCPWD’s leadership and the continued support of partners like Sightsavers, the road to a more inclusive and accessible Nigeria appears brighter than ever.
About NCPWD
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) is the government body responsible for advocating and implementing policies that protect the rights of persons with disabilities in Nigeria. The Commission works to ensure that persons with disabilities are given equal opportunities in areas such as education, employment, healthcare, and public life.
About Sightsavers
Sightsavers is an international development organization that works to eliminate avoidable blindness and promote equal opportunities for people with disabilities. The organization partners with local governments, organizations, and communities to drive inclusive development and ensure that persons with disabilities can live independently and participate fully in society.
