The United Nations in Nigeria has issued a rallying call for enhanced efforts to address critical gaps in disability inclusion, urging the government, stakeholders, and civil society to strengthen capacities and frameworks to protect and promote the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). This urgent appeal was made during a multi-stakeholder workshop and review session held in Abuja, aimed at validating a landmark report on the state of disability rights in the country.
Organized by UNESCO in collaboration with the UN Partnership on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNPRPD), the event served as a critical platform to address structural challenges and build momentum toward a more inclusive Nigeria.
Bridging Gaps in Disability Legislation
UNESCO Nigeria’s Head of Office, Mr. Diallo Abdourahamane, delivered a poignant address, spotlighting the pressing need to revise the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018 to align it with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). While acknowledging the strides made since the law’s enactment, he outlined several gaps that threaten its effectiveness.
“These gaps include the exclusion of private organizations from the mandated 5% employment quota for persons with disabilities, the absence of provisions for reasonable accommodations and assistive technologies in workplaces, and the lack of guarantees for digital accessibility,” Abdourahamane noted.
He emphasized the need for amendments to the Act, stressing that such revisions should be developed in close consultation with Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) and supported by international cooperation. “These issues must be addressed urgently to ensure that no Nigerian is left behind,” he stated.
Advancing Disability Data and Inclusive Education
A major highlight of Mr. Abdourahamane’s speech was the critical disability data gap in Nigeria, which, according to him, hinders evidence-based policymaking and planning. “The absence of administrative data and the lack of comprehensive disability metrics in national surveys limit the government’s ability to design effective interventions,” he remarked.
To address this, he called for the implementation of a detailed action plan under the Nigeria Inclusive Data Charter, complete with annual targets, measurable indicators, and dedicated budgets. He also emphasized the urgent need for a costed implementation plan for the Revised National Policy on Inclusive Education (2023), noting that equitable access to quality education remains elusive for many children with disabilities.
“The government must prioritize these actions to bridge the gaps and empower all Nigerians, regardless of their abilities, to thrive in an inclusive society,” Abdourahamane urged.
Findings Highlight Progress and Persistent Challenges
The event featured a presentation of key findings from the Situation Analysis on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities by Dr. Toyin Aderemi, a consultant for the project. While acknowledging significant progress since the enactment of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, Dr. Aderemi pointed to gaps in coordination, gender equality, and the inclusion of marginalized groups within the disability community.
“Nigeria has taken important steps toward disability inclusion, but much remains to be done to ensure these actions have a meaningful impact,” Dr. Aderemi stated. She highlighted the lack of active participation of PWDs in policymaking and called for collaborative efforts to close these gaps.
“Stakeholders must work together to ensure alignment with global best practices. Only through unity and shared commitment can we create a truly inclusive Nigeria,” she added.
Building Capacity for Inclusive Solutions
Describing the workshop as a pivotal step, Abdourahamane underscored its significance in fostering dialogue and co-creating solutions for advancing disability inclusion. “This event is more than a workshop; it is the start of a process to strengthen partnerships, share ideas, and shape a future where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive,” he said.
He reiterated the UN’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in building the necessary organizational structures, guidelines, and methodologies to promote disability inclusion. “The outcomes of this workshop will have lasting impacts on policies, programs, and practices that affect millions of lives. Together, we can create a society where every individual has the opportunity to reach their full potential,” he concluded.
A Collaborative Vision for the Future
The event, which brought together representatives from the government, civil society, and the disability community, marked a turning point in the journey toward disability inclusion in Nigeria. With the backing of UNESCO and the UNPRPD, stakeholders pledged to ensure that the validated report becomes a cornerstone for advocacy, policymaking, and strategic action.
As Nigeria moves forward, the call to action is clear: Address legislative gaps, prioritize data collection, and foster meaningful participation of PWDs in governance and decision-making. Only through these efforts can the vision of an inclusive Nigeria become a reality.
The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment from all parties to drive progress and ensure that no Nigerian is left behind in the quest for equality and social justice.
