In a bold affirmation of its commitment to promoting the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), the United States has pledged unwavering support to ensure their full inclusion in Nigeria’s democratic process. This declaration was made during the launch of the 2023 Nigeria Elections Report on the Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, an event organized by the Cedar Seed Foundation (CSF) in partnership with Luminate. The event, held on Thursday in Abuja, brought together key stakeholders dedicated to advancing the rights and political participation of PWDs in Nigeria.
A Strong Message of Support from the US
The US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills Jr., expressed the United States’ firm commitment to disability-inclusive democracy. Represented by Stephen Schlieman from the Political Office of the US Mission in Nigeria, Ambassador Mills emphasized that supporting democracy, good governance, and inclusivity is a top priority for the United States, and that this commitment is underscored by President Joe Biden’s administration.
“President Biden is dedicated to supporting disability-inclusive actions that affect the lives of one billion persons with disabilities worldwide,” Schlieman stated. He further stressed that disability-inclusive democracy and political participation are essential components of a robust democratic foundation, adding that these principles are integral to promoting human rights, addressing inequality, and ensuring transparency and accountability.
The Ambassador’s message was clear: the United States is not only a strategic partner in supporting Nigeria’s democratic processes but is also deeply committed to ensuring that PWDs have the same opportunities to participate in all aspects of life, including the electoral process.
Cedar Seed Foundation’s Call for Action
Lois Auta, the founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Cedar Seed Foundation, delivered a powerful message during the event, advocating for greater inclusion of women and girls with disabilities in Nigeria’s political landscape. Auta highlighted the persistent exclusion of PWDs, particularly women and girls, from elective and appointive positions, describing it as a long-overdue issue that needs urgent attention.
“Women and girls with disabilities are at the zero level of government involvement in appointive and elective positions, and this is disheartening,” Auta lamented. “We are qualified but have been denied the platform for representation. It’s time for us to be included in the governance structure of Nigeria.”
Auta’s message was not just a call for inclusion but a rallying cry for PWDs, especially women, to step up and vie for political office. “Running for political office will give us the opportunity to challenge the challengers and ensure that we are included,” she urged. This, she emphasized, is the only way PWDs can fight for their rights and ensure that their voices are heard in the corridors of power.
The 2023 Nigeria Elections Report: A Critical Assessment
The event also featured the presentation of the 2023 Nigeria Elections Report by Shedrack Danladi, the National Programme Officer of CSF. The report provided a critical assessment of the level of participation of PWDs, women, and youth in the 2023 general elections. Danladi highlighted both the achievements and the gaps in ensuring inclusivity in Nigeria’s electoral process.
One of the key findings of the report was the need for more proactive measures by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the broader electoral system to ensure that PWDs can participate fully and equally in the electoral process. The report stressed that while there have been improvements, significant challenges remain, particularly in addressing the specific needs of PWDs during elections.
Danladi called for a more concerted effort to engage stakeholders in making the electoral process more inclusive. “Using PWD-disaggregated data for planning purposes will be vital,” he said. “Engagement with INEC and other stakeholders would be useful in ensuring that the electoral process addresses the specific needs of PWDs.”
A Call to Action for PWDs
Rose Daniel, the Deputy Executive Director of CSF, delivered a powerful closing remark, challenging PWDs across Nigeria to continue fighting for their rights. She urged them not to be passive but to actively participate in the political process by contesting elections.
“Don’t wait for someone else to speak for you. It’s time to step up and take action. Your involvement in the political process is essential for ensuring that your rights are protected and that you have a say in the decisions that affect your lives,” Daniel urged.
Daniel’s call was a reminder that while external support is crucial, the most significant change must come from within the community of PWDs themselves. By stepping into leadership roles and contesting elections, PWDs can directly influence policies and decisions that impact their lives and the lives of others with disabilities.
Moving Forward: A Roadmap for Inclusion
The event in Abuja was not just a report launch but a crucial gathering of minds committed to the cause of disability inclusion in Nigeria. The pledges made by the United States and the calls to action from CSF leaders underscore the importance of continued advocacy and active participation of PWDs in the democratic process.
As Nigeria looks ahead to future elections, the findings and recommendations from the 2023 Elections Report will serve as a vital roadmap for ensuring that PWDs are not only included but are also active participants in shaping the country’s democratic future. The commitment from international partners like the United States adds a significant layer of support, but it is the determination of PWDs themselves that will ultimately drive the change needed to achieve true inclusion.
The launch of the report is a reminder that democracy is not complete unless it includes all citizens, regardless of their physical abilities. As Nigeria continues to develop its democratic institutions, ensuring that PWDs have a voice and a seat at the table will be critical to building a more inclusive and equitable society.
About Cedar Seed Foundation
Cedar Seed Foundation is a leading non-governmental organization in Nigeria dedicated to advocating for the rights and inclusion of Persons with Disabilities. Through various programs and initiatives, CSF works to empower PWDs, promote their rights, and ensure that they are fully included in all aspects of society, including governance and political participation.
