In a significant moment for Nigeria’s disability rights movement, the Network of Women with Disabilities (NWD) has extended heartfelt congratulations to Chief Ayuba Gufwan on his recent appointment as the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD). This appointment, made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been widely hailed as a strategic move to further the cause of disability inclusion and empowerment in Nigeria.
A Strategic Appointment for Disability Rights
Chief Ayuba Gufwan’s appointment is seen by many as a deliberate and thoughtful decision by President Tinubu, signaling a renewed focus on advancing the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria. The NWD, a leading advocacy group championing the rights of women with disabilities, commended the President for his commitment to ensuring that the leadership of the NCPWD is in capable and experienced hands.
“This appointment is not just a win for the disability community, but also a clear indication of President Tinubu’s dedication to fostering inclusion and empowerment, particularly for girls and women with disabilities in Nigeria,” said Lois Auta, President of NWD, in a statement.
Chief Ayuba Gufwan: A Leader with Vision and Experience
Chief Ayuba Gufwan is no stranger to the disability rights movement in Nigeria. With a robust background in advocacy and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by PWDs, his appointment as Executive Secretary is expected to bring a fresh and dynamic approach to the leadership of the NCPWD.
“Chief Gufwan’s wealth of experience in disability rights and advocacy makes him an excellent fit for this critical role,” Auta remarked. “We are confident that under his leadership, the NCPWD will continue to protect and promote the rights of persons with disabilities, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met.”
Chief Gufwan has been a prominent figure in the disability rights community, known for his unwavering dedication to advancing the rights of PWDs across the country. His appointment comes at a time when there is increasing recognition of the need for inclusive policies and practices that cater to the diverse needs of all Nigerians, particularly those with disabilities.
Gratitude to the Outgoing Executive Secretary
In the same breath, the NWD expressed deep appreciation for the outgoing Executive Secretary, Dr. James Lalu, whose tenure was marked by significant strides in promoting the rights of PWDs. Dr. Lalu’s leadership was instrumental in laying a solid foundation for the NCPWD, and his contributions to the disability community have been widely acknowledged.
“We are immensely grateful to Dr. James Lalu for his dedication and service to the disability community,” said Auta. “His efforts have been invaluable in advancing the rights and inclusion of PWDs, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”
Dr. Lalu’s tenure saw several key developments, including the strengthening of the NCPWD’s capacity to advocate for and implement policies that benefit PWDs. His work has set a strong precedent for his successor, Chief Gufwan, who is now tasked with building on this legacy and taking the Commission to new heights.
Looking Forward: A Vision for Inclusive Leadership
As Chief Gufwan assumes his new role, the expectations from the disability community, particularly women with disabilities, are high. The NWD has expressed its readiness to collaborate with the new leadership of the NCPWD to ensure that the rights of women and girls with disabilities are prioritized in the Commission’s agenda.
“We look forward to working closely with Chief Gufwan and the NCPWD to advance the rights and inclusion of women with disabilities in Nigeria,” Auta affirmed. “It is crucial that the Commission continues to champion the issues that matter most to our community, including access to education, healthcare, employment, and political participation.”
The NWD’s call for a focus on the rights of women and girls with disabilities is particularly pertinent given the historical marginalization of this group within both the broader disability community and society at large. With Chief Gufwan at the helm, there is renewed hope that the NCPWD will address these challenges head-on, ensuring that no one is left behind.
A Time for Action and Collaboration
The NWD’s statement is more than just a congratulatory note—it is a call to action. As Nigeria moves forward under new leadership at the NCPWD, there is a clear recognition that the work of disability inclusion is far from complete. The NWD, along with other stakeholders, is poised to engage with the Commission in meaningful ways to drive progress and ensure that the rights of PWDs are fully realized.
Chief Ayuba Gufwan’s appointment is a pivotal moment for the NCPWD and the broader disability community in Nigeria. With his vision, experience, and commitment to the cause, there is a strong sense of optimism that the Commission will continue to make significant strides in promoting and protecting the rights of PWDs.
As the NWD and other advocacy groups prepare to work alongside Chief Gufwan, the message is clear: the fight for disability rights is ongoing, and together, with strong and inclusive leadership, much can be achieved.
About the Network of Women with Disabilities (NWD)
The Network of Women with Disabilities (NWD) is a leading advocacy organization in Nigeria dedicated to promoting the rights and inclusion of women and girls with disabilities. Through its work, NWD aims to empower women with disabilities, advocate for their rights, and ensure their full participation in all aspects of society.
