Ambassador Nwanoro and Mr. Overvest discuss collaboration for a more inclusive São Tomé and Príncipe
The United Nations Resident Coordinator in São Tomé and Príncipe, Mr. Eric Overvest, has paid a courtesy visit to the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to São Tomé and Príncipe, Dr. Christopher Nwanoro, as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration, promote awareness, and advance disability inclusion across the island nation.
The meeting, held on October 3, 2025, at the Nigerian Embassy in São Tomé, served as a platform for strategic dialogue on fostering inclusive development and ensuring that persons with disabilities (PWDs) are not left behind in national planning and policy implementation.
During the visit, Mr. Overvest commended the Nigerian Embassy for its active diplomatic presence and constructive engagement in São Tomé and Príncipe. He emphasized that the UN remains committed to promoting equity, accessibility, and social justice, especially for vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities.
“Inclusion is not a privilege — it is a right. Persons with disabilities must be visible in every conversation about development, from education and employment to healthcare and governance,” Overvest stated.
He added that the United Nations, through its various agencies, continues to prioritize inclusive programming and stands ready to support the São Toméan government and development partners in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with disability inclusion at the forefront.
Nigeria’s Commitment to Inclusive Diplomacy
In his response, Ambassador Dr. Christopher Nwanoro reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to inclusive governance, human rights, and the empowerment of persons with disabilities, both at home and across Africa.
Dr. Nwanoro described the visit as timely and productive, noting that the conversation marked the beginning of a mutually beneficial partnership between the Nigerian Embassy, the UN system, and local stakeholders in São Tomé and Príncipe.
“Nigeria believes that disability inclusion is an integral part of sustainable development. This meeting opens new opportunities for collaboration in advocacy, education, policy support, and awareness creation,” the Ambassador said.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s progress in implementing the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, establishing the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), and mainstreaming inclusion into national policies — achievements he said could serve as a model for other African nations.
Disability Awareness and Policy Engagement
The discussion explored practical ways to improve disability awareness in São Tomé and Príncipe, including public sensitization, inclusive education reforms, and accessibility in public infrastructure. Both parties agreed that breaking stereotypes and removing attitudinal barriers remain essential to achieving genuine inclusion.
Dr. Nwanoro and Mr. Overvest also discussed potential areas of cooperation between the Nigerian Embassy, the UN Country Team, and local civil society organizations in developing community-based initiatives that empower persons with disabilities through skills development, entrepreneurship, and leadership opportunities.
They further acknowledged the importance of accurate data collection and mapping to guide inclusive policy planning and ensure accountability in the implementation of disability-related programs.
Charting a Path Forward
The courtesy meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepen institutional dialogue, promote policy alignment, and strengthen the voices of persons with disabilities in São Tomé and Príncipe.
Both Ambassador Nwanoro and Mr. Overvest expressed optimism that this partnership would catalyze tangible progress in achieving an inclusive society where persons with disabilities can participate fully and equally in all spheres of life.
“We must keep inclusion at the heart of development. Together, we can build a São Tomé and Príncipe where no one is left behind,” Overvest emphasized.
The visit was widely regarded as a milestone in advancing disability diplomacy — one that reflects Nigeria’s growing influence in championing inclusion and the United Nations’ continued dedication to human-centered development.
