In a landmark move toward advancing disability inclusion and inclusive governance, Nigeria is set to host the 2025 National Disability Summit, a major event that aims to redefine the country’s approach to disability rights and inclusive national development.
Organized by the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction and other development partners, the Summit will take place from October 29 to 30, 2025, in Abuja under the theme “Inclusive Nigeria: Empowering Persons with Disabilities for Sustainable Development.”
A National Platform for Inclusion and Collaboration
The 2025 National Disability Summit will bring together policymakers, civil society organizations, private sector leaders, development partners, and Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) for a two-day engagement focused on inclusive growth and policy action.
Discussions will cover key areas including inclusive employment, entrepreneurship opportunities, digital accessibility, data-driven policymaking, and accessible infrastructure.
According to the Commission, the Summit will go beyond dialogue — serving as a catalyst for coordinated action and accountability toward achieving disability inclusion in line with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Nigeria’s Progress and Challenges in Disability Inclusion
Home to an estimated 35.5 million persons with disabilities, Nigeria has made notable legislative progress in recent years. The enactment of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, remains a milestone in the fight for equality and social justice.
However, implementation gaps persist, with only 23 states domesticating the Act and 15 states establishing functional disability agencies. The upcoming Summit will serve as a crucial platform to bridge these gaps and strengthen nationwide coordination for disability rights implementation.
Launch of National Forum for Disability Commissions and Agencies
A major highlight of the event will be the official launch of the National Forum of Disability Commissions and Agencies (NAFDCA) — a coordination mechanism designed to promote intergovernmental collaboration, peer learning, and unified action for effective disability policy implementation across Nigeria.
This new platform is expected to foster cooperation between federal and state agencies while driving inclusive governance and social accountability.
Executive Secretary’s Call to Action
Speaking ahead of the Summit, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, underscored the importance of unified efforts in building an inclusive Nigeria.
“The 2025 National Disability Summit is a call to action for all stakeholders to come together and address the challenges that hinder the full participation of persons with disabilities,” Gufwan stated.
“It presents a renewed opportunity to align our efforts toward building a truly inclusive Nigeria—one where every citizen can thrive and contribute meaningfully.”
He emphasized that the Summit reflects the Commission’s unwavering commitment to dismantling systemic barriers and fostering equity for all Nigerians.
International Support for a National Cause
The 2025 Summit enjoys strong backing from international partners including the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) Nigeria), the European Union (EU), the Government of Germany, the Government of Switzerland, and IDEA International.
These partners have a longstanding commitment to promoting inclusion and equitable development in Nigeria and across Africa.
Dr. Markus Wagner, Country Director of GIZ Nigeria, highlighted the significance of the Summit:
“This Summit is more than just a gathering. It is an essential step towards ensuring that persons with disabilities can actively participate in Nigeria’s development. Inclusion is not charity; it is justice and opportunity.”
Showcasing Innovation and Solutions for Inclusion
Beyond plenary sessions, the event will feature interactive panel discussions, thematic workshops, and exhibitions of innovative technologies and accessibility solutions aimed at enhancing participation and empowerment for persons with disabilities across all sectors.
Participants will explore practical models for building accessible environments, promoting entrepreneurship, and leveraging technology for inclusion.
The Summit will run from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily, serving as a national platform for collaboration, dialogue, and shared accountability in advancing inclusive development.
A Defining Step Toward an Inclusive Nigeria
As the world moves closer to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Nigeria’s 2025 National Disability Summit represents a powerful statement of intent — a call to ensure that no one is left behind in the pursuit of progress.
By bringing together diverse voices and partners, the event sets the stage for transformative change — one that recognizes the talents, contributions, and rights of persons with disabilities as essential to building a more just and equitable nation.
Event Details
📅 Date: October 29–30, 2025
🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily
📍 Venue: Abuja, Federal Capital Territory
Organized by:
National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD)
Supported by:
Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, GIZ Nigeria, European Union, Government of Germany, Government of Switzerland, and IDEA International.
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