Abuja, Nigeria – February 26, 2025
In a bold move to promote economic inclusion and ease financial burdens on Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Disability Matters, Hon. Dr. Bashiru Dawodu, has called on the Federal Government (FG) to exempt PWDs from taxation. He insists that individuals living with disabilities should not be required to pay tax, given the socio-economic challenges they face daily.
Speaking at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Persons with Disabilities in Abuja, Dawodu further advocated for tax reliefs for companies that employ PWDs and those manufacturing assistive devices and equipment for them. He emphasized that businesses contributing to disability inclusion should be rewarded with tax credits and waivers, creating incentives for corporate entities to support the disability community.
Tax Reforms Must Address Disability Inclusion
Hon. Dawodu noted that while his committee fully supports the current tax reform bills, it is also conscious of loopholes that fail to consider the realities of PWDs. He assured that during the upcoming public hearing on the reforms, his committee would push for amendments to include tax exemptions and incentives that benefit PWDs and businesses that cater to them.
“It is unfair to tax individuals who already face discrimination and structural barriers in society. We must create a fair system that acknowledges their challenges and provides relief,” Dawodu stated.
Strengthening the 2018 Disability Act: A Call for Enforcement
While highlighting the progress made since the passage of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, Dawodu lamented its poor implementation by both government agencies and the private sector. He pointed out that despite the law’s five-year moratorium, many of its key provisions—such as accessibility in public buildings, transportation hubs, schools, and healthcare facilities—remain largely ignored.
“The Disability Act requires that at least 5% of employment opportunities in public and private sectors be allocated to PWDs, yet this is not happening. Accessibility to public buildings, bus and rail terminals, education, and healthcare facilities remains a struggle for millions of Nigerians with disabilities. This is unacceptable,” he declared.
To address these shortcomings, Dawodu revealed that the House of Representatives is working on amending the Act to introduce more stringent penalties for non-compliance. He also stressed the need for constitutional amendments to ensure the full enforcement of the Disability Act at all levels of government.
States Urged to Domesticate Disability Law
A major setback for disability inclusion, according to Dawodu, is the failure of many states to domesticate the Disability Act. He disclosed that only 22 states have implemented the law, while others continue to lag behind.
“Every Nigerian state must domesticate this law in the interest of PWDs. It is a fundamental human rights issue, and those states that are yet to take action are denying their citizens with disabilities the protections they deserve,” he said.
Inadequate Budgetary Allocation: A Threat to PWDs
Hon. Dawodu did not hold back in criticizing the low budgetary allocation to the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD). He argued that the N2 billion allocated to the Commission is grossly insufficient to cater to over 35 million Nigerians living with disabilities.
“This allocation suggests that the government is not prioritizing PWDs. We need adequate funding to implement disability-friendly policies and programs effectively. Without proper financing, we are only paying lip service to inclusion,” he asserted.
Empowering Special Education and Disability Trust Fund
Beyond tax exemptions, Dawodu called for stronger support systems for special education teachers. He proposed scholarships and incentives to encourage educators who dedicate their careers to teaching PWDs.
Additionally, he advocated for the creation of a Disability Trust Fund—a financial safety net that would ensure sustained support for PWDs in education, employment, healthcare, and entrepreneurship.
“We need to establish long-term funding mechanisms that guarantee continuous support for PWDs. A Disability Trust Fund will provide a structured approach to disability inclusion,” he noted.
Electoral Act Amendments for Disability Inclusion
Recognizing the political marginalization of PWDs, Dawodu stressed the need to amend the Electoral Act to ensure barrier-free voting access and political participation for PWDs. He disclosed that the House has already passed several motions aimed at enforcing inclusivity in elections, ensuring that PWDs can exercise their voting rights independently and safely.
“PWDs should not face obstacles when participating in democracy. We must remove all barriers to ensure they have equal political rights,” he emphasized.
Collaboration with NGOs and the Private Sector
Dawodu underscored the importance of collaboration between the government, NGOs, and private sector organizations to advance the rights and welfare of PWDs. He reiterated that over 35 million Nigerians live with disabilities, and it is only through collective action that meaningful change can be achieved.
“Nigeria will work better if we, as lawmakers, prioritize disability rights. But we cannot do it alone. We need NGOs, corporate bodies, and individuals to join in the fight for inclusivity,” he urged.
“Everyone is a Potential PWD” – A Sobering Reminder
Closing his address, Dawodu reminded Nigerians that disability is not a distant reality—it can happen to anyone.
“Every one of us is a potential PWD. A road accident, an illness, or an unexpected event can change your life forever. We must build a society that respects and supports all people, regardless of their abilities,” he said.
PWDs’ Potential Unhinged Project: A New Dawn for Inclusion
The event also featured the signing of an MoU under the PWD’s Potential Unhinged Project, a groundbreaking initiative led by Valentine Ugochukwu Zion. The agreement covers a nationwide medical access support initiative, aimed at providing healthcare assistance to PWDs in underserved areas.
Additionally, the MoU includes programs for talent discovery, creativity development, a disability-focused reality TV show, and an inclusive musical concert designed to showcase the resilience and potential of PWDs.
Final Thoughts: A Step Towards Greater Inclusion
Dawodu’s passionate advocacy for tax exemptions, legal reforms, and better funding for PWDs signals a growing commitment to disability rights in Nigeria. However, the real test will be whether these proposals translate into actionable policies that create lasting change for millions of Nigerians with disabilities.
As the House of Representatives deliberates on these crucial reforms, the disability community and its allies will be watching closely, hoping that Nigeria will take a decisive step toward true inclusivity.
