Abuja, Nigeria — June 25, 2024
In a dramatic demonstration today, the Association of Technology Inclined Visually Impaired Persons of Nigeria gathered at the National Commission for Persons With Disabilities (NCPWD) premises, calling for urgent attention to their employment and welfare concerns. This public outcry has spotlighted the pressing needs of visually impaired Nigerians striving for equitable representation in the workforce.
The group’s agitation underscored the growing frustration among its members, who feel marginalized in the current employment landscape. The rally prompted swift action from the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Dr. James David Lalu, who addressed the demonstrators with a message of hope and reassurance.
In his response, Dr. Lalu committed to addressing the grievances expressed by the association, emphasizing that the Commission is prepared to act once the necessary employment waivers are granted by the relevant government bodies. “Those who are qualified will be engaged accordingly,” Lalu affirmed, indicating a firm stance on ensuring that visually impaired individuals receive their due opportunities in the civil service.
The Executive Secretary also highlighted the pivotal role of the Federal Civil Service Commission in this process. He pointed out the legal framework provided by the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018, which mandates adequate representation of persons with disabilities in employment. Lalu disclosed ongoing efforts to expedite the waiver approval process by engaging directly with the Director responsible for waivers in the office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation.
Mr. Aluko Tolulope, the leader of the Association, presented a poignant depiction of the challenges faced by visually impaired individuals amid Nigeria’s economic difficulties. He criticized the Civil Service Commission for allegedly excluding persons with disabilities from the recent employment drive, thereby exacerbating their struggle for financial stability and inclusion.
One significant issue raised during the meeting involved the Point of Sale (POS) machines distributed by the NCPWD last year. The initiative, which included a 100,000 Naira empowerment package per beneficiary, was intended to provide a sustainable income source for many families with disabled members. However, complications arose when service providers demanded additional payments, creating a financial burden for the operators.
Dr. Lalu took immediate action to resolve this issue, facilitating a telephone conversation to address the service providers’ demands. This swift resolution highlighted his commitment to mitigating the financial pressures faced by the association’s members.
Furthermore, Dr. Lalu disclosed that the last employment waiver was approved in 2022, underscoring the Commission’s dedication to securing better job placements for persons with disabilities. He reassured the association that the NCPWD is steadfast in its mission to improve their socio-economic conditions.
The day’s events underscored the critical need for systemic changes to support visually impaired individuals in Nigeria. The association’s call for fair employment practices resonates with broader demands for inclusivity and equal opportunities across various sectors. As the NCPWD and other governmental bodies work towards addressing these concerns, the hope remains that concrete actions will follow these assurances, leading to meaningful improvements in the lives of visually impaired Nigerians.
For now, the visually impaired community and their advocates continue to await tangible progress, holding on to the promises made by the NCPWD and looking forward to a future where their rights and contributions are fully recognized and valued.
Mbanefo JohnMichaels I
Head Information and Public Relations Unit, NCPWD
