…As Voice of Disability Initiative (VDI) Celebrates 10 Years of Impact in Abuja
In a bold and resounding call for justice, equity, and empowerment, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, has demanded a multi-sectoral approach to dismantle the persistent discrimination against women and girls with disabilities in Nigeria.
Speaking during the 10th Anniversary Celebration of the Voice of Disability Initiative (VDI) in Abuja, Hon. Abba Isa—represented by his Director of Media and Communications, Mr. Lanre Oloyede—highlighted the urgent need for inclusive policies, community sensitization, and full implementation of the National Disability Act across the country.
“Her Rights, Her Voice, Her Future” — A Decade of Advocacy
The theme of the anniversary, “10 Years of Impact: Her Rights, Her Voice, Her Future”, was described by Hon. Abba Isa as a powerful reflection of the mission that VDI has pursued over the past decade—and a sobering reminder of the realities that still confront millions of women and girls with disabilities in Nigeria today.
“Across the country, many women and girls with disabilities continue to suffer abuse, neglect, and marginalization,” he said. “They are often denied access to education, healthcare, justice, economic opportunities, and even basic dignity. This must change.”
Hon. Abba Isa praised VDI as a “bold and consistent voice” championing the rights and dignity of women and girls with disabilities. Over the last 10 years, the organization has emerged as a leading force in the national and global disability movement, using advocacy, storytelling, legal interventions, and community engagement to dismantle harmful stereotypes and influence policy reform.
Inclusion Is Not Charity—It’s Justice
Hon. Abba Isa emphasized that the continued exclusion of women and girls with disabilities from mainstream development efforts represents not only a policy gap but a human rights crisis. He called for a collective, multi-sectoral response that includes:
- Full enforcement and domestication of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018 in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
- Intensified community-level sensitization to combat cultural and social stereotypes that devalue the lives of women and girls with disabilities.
- Accessible education and healthcare systems, especially in rural and underserved areas.
- Targeted economic empowerment initiatives designed specifically for women and girls with disabilities.
- Inclusion of their voices in leadership and decision-making processes at local, state, and national levels.
“We must let them lead in shaping their future,” he stressed. “We cannot continue to make decisions for women with disabilities—we must make decisions with them.”
The Federal Government’s Commitment to Disability Inclusion
Hon. Abba Isa reassured attendees that the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR remains firmly committed to promoting inclusion and protecting the rights of all vulnerable groups.
“Mr. President and this administration frown against all forms of violence, crime, or discrimination against children, women, and girls with disabilities,” he noted. “Our commitment to inclusion is not in words alone—it is backed by policy action and political will.”
He further urged all government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and development partners to work in synergy toward a more inclusive and equitable society, particularly as Nigeria strives to meet its national development goals and international obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
Scaling Up the Movement: Stronger Collaboration Needed
In a heartfelt call to action, Hon. Abba Isa encouraged VDI to strengthen its partnerships with government institutions, particularly with the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities. He emphasized that deeper collaboration will amplify the voices of women with disabilities and enhance the organization’s influence in shaping impactful, disability-sensitive policies.
“We are stronger when we work together,” he said. “Your voice matters, your work matters, and your impact is undeniable. Let us build on this momentum and take this movement to greater heights.”
A Decade of Impact, A Future of Hope
The anniversary celebration was more than a commemoration—it was a renewal of purpose. It brought together disability advocates, government representatives, development partners, and supporters of VDI’s cause to reflect on a decade of tireless work and to strategize for the future.
As one of Nigeria’s most prominent women-led disability advocacy organizations, Voice of Disability Initiative has remained at the forefront of inclusive activism. Its founder, Barrister Lois Auta, has been instrumental in advocating for legal reforms, inclusive governance, and the protection of rights of women and girls with disabilities across Africa.
The event marked a significant milestone in the disability rights movement in Nigeria—a moment to celebrate progress, acknowledge challenges, and chart a path forward.
In the words of Hon. Abba Isa:
“It’s not just about visibility—it’s about leadership, dignity, and justice. Women and girls with disabilities must be seen, heard, protected, and empowered. The next 10 years must be about amplifying their voices and fulfilling their rights.”
