In a significant step toward achieving legal protections for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Benue State, the Hope Alive Possibilities Initiative (HAPI) held a high-level strategic dialogue with the Benue State Ministry of Education and Knowledge Management. The meeting, led by HAPI’s Executive Director, Ms. Aver Akighir, was aimed at fostering collaboration with key stakeholders to accelerate the domestication of the state’s disability law.
The dialogue session, which took place in Makurdi, highlighted the urgent need to align the state’s legal framework with the provisions of the National Disability Act. Ms. Akighir emphasized that domestication would pave the way for comprehensive inclusion in education, employment, healthcare, and infrastructure, ensuring that PWDs enjoy the same rights and opportunities as other citizens.
Benue Commissioner of Education Backs the Initiative
Reverend Dr. Fredrick Kayaan, the Benue State Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, warmly received the HAPI team and expressed his enthusiasm for the ongoing advocacy efforts.
“I am delighted to know that organizations like HAPI are working tirelessly to push for the recognition and enforcement of the rights of persons with disabilities. It’s reassuring to see that Benue State has dedicated advocates striving to build a more inclusive society,” said Kayaan.
The commissioner shared insights into his previous involvement in disability advocacy at the national level, where he served as part of the technical working committee that developed the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD). He noted that his experience at the federal level had prepared him to champion similar reforms within Benue State.
“I am more than willing to lend my support to this cause and ensure that Benue achieves full domestication of the disability law,” Kayaan affirmed.
Key Recommendations and Path Forward
During the meeting, Reverend Kayaan provided valuable recommendations to guide HAPI’s ongoing advocacy efforts. He emphasized the importance of continuous engagement with relevant ministries, civil society organizations, and lawmakers to ensure the smooth passage of the disability law. He also committed to following up on the current status of the bill within the state legislature, assuring the team of his full support.
“We must ensure that the bill doesn’t just sit on the table but moves forward with the urgency it deserves,” Kayaan said. “Once passed, the implementation of the law must be seamless to truly benefit those it aims to protect.”
Inclusive education emerged as a central topic during the discussion, with both the HAPI team and the commissioner agreeing that education is a vital component of the bill. The proposed law seeks to integrate PWDs fully into the state’s education system, eliminating barriers and providing them with equal access to learning opportunities.
“With the commissioner’s support, we are optimistic that the domestication of the disability law in Benue will gain momentum. His commitment to inclusive education is a promising sign that the law’s implementation, once passed, will be effective and far-reaching,” Ms. Akighir said.
A Collaborative Effort Funded by Disability Rights Fund
This initiative is part of a broader advocacy project supported by the Disability Rights Fund, an organization committed to empowering individuals with disabilities and advancing their rights globally. The funding enables HAPI to engage stakeholders, create awareness, and mobilize support for the passage and implementation of disability-friendly legislation across Nigeria.
The meeting marks a significant milestone in HAPI’s mission to secure legal protections for persons with disabilities in Benue State. It also reinforces the importance of inter-agency collaboration in achieving sustainable development goals centered on inclusion and equality.
A Bright Future for Disability Rights in Benue State
The dialogue between HAPI and the Ministry of Education underscores the growing momentum toward a more inclusive Benue State. With the commitment of leaders like Reverend Dr. Kayaan and the support of dedicated organizations like HAPI, the journey toward the domestication of the disability law is gaining speed.
As Ms. Akighir noted, “The passage of this law will send a clear message that Benue State is ready to embrace diversity and ensure that no one is left behind.”
The advocacy efforts will continue with follow-up meetings involving other key stakeholders in government, civil society, and the private sector, all working toward the shared goal of ensuring that PWDs can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the development of the state.
This strategic dialogue is a promising step toward a future where the rights of persons with disabilities are not only recognized but protected and upheld in every corner of Benue State.
