Yobe State has made a groundbreaking move in championing the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) with the signing of the Disability Protection Bill into law by Governor Hon. Mai Mala Buni. The landmark legislation, which establishes a dedicated Disability Commission, is designed to address the unique needs of PWDs and ensure their inclusion across all spheres of society.
Governor Buni’s decision to create a legal framework for PWDs in the state has been hailed as a significant victory in the fight for disability rights. By signing the Disability Protection Bill into law, he has set the stage for a comprehensive approach to eliminating barriers and promoting equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The law seeks to empower PWDs in key areas such as education, healthcare, employment, transportation, and overall societal participation.
The newly established Disability Commission will oversee the enforcement of this transformative legislation. It will be tasked with monitoring compliance with disability rights laws, advocating for the inclusion of PWDs in all decision-making processes, and driving initiatives that promote economic empowerment and skills development for people living with disabilities.
In an exciting development, Governor Buni appointed Usman Bra Gabai, the current Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) in Yobe State, as the Acting Chairman of the Disability Commission. Gabai’s appointment is seen as a strong indication of the state’s commitment to prioritizing disability inclusion, as he brings a wealth of experience and advocacy to the table.
Usman Bra Gabai, known for his tireless work in advancing the rights of PWDs, has expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the new Commission. He is expected to play a pivotal role in ensuring that the provisions of the Disability Protection Bill are effectively implemented. His leadership is anticipated to be crucial in guiding the Commission’s efforts to address accessibility issues, promote inclusive education, and foster economic opportunities for PWDs throughout the state.
Civil society organizations, including the Advocacy for Disability Act Cluster (ADAC), have strongly endorsed Governor Buni’s signing of the bill, praising it as a monumental step toward true inclusion and empowerment for PWDs in Yobe State. ADAC, in a statement, called the law “a beacon of hope” for persons with disabilities, noting that it could serve as a model for other states to emulate in creating a more inclusive and accessible environment for PWDs.
The Disability Protection Bill is a sweeping legal framework that mandates the elimination of physical, social, and economic barriers that hinder the full participation of PWDs in society. This includes ensuring that public and private buildings are accessible, providing healthcare and educational services that cater to the needs of people with disabilities, and creating job opportunities that accommodate individuals with different abilities. The law also mandates that transportation systems be made accessible to all, helping to bridge the mobility gap that has long limited opportunities for PWDs.
In addition to these practical measures, the Commission will advocate for the participation of PWDs in policymaking and decision-making processes. This ensures that the voices of those most affected by disability-related issues are heard and taken into account when decisions are made at the local, state, and national levels.
With the establishment of the Disability Commission, Yobe State has positioned itself as a leader in disability rights advocacy in Nigeria. The hope is that the steps taken by the state will inspire other regions to follow suit, creating a domino effect that will lead to greater inclusion and opportunities for PWDs across the country.
The new Commission is expected to be a powerful force for change, providing a platform for people with disabilities to advocate for their rights and access the resources they need to thrive. The establishment of this body signals a new era for disability rights in Yobe, one that could have far-reaching effects beyond the state’s borders.
As the Commission embarks on its critical mission, it will have the full backing of both governmental and civil society groups committed to seeing the vision of a more inclusive society for PWDs realized. Governor Buni’s leadership in this area is a testament to his commitment to social justice and equality, and his vision for a Yobe State that embraces all citizens, regardless of ability.
With this historic move, Yobe State is not just setting a precedent within Nigeria, but also sending a message to the world: a truly inclusive society is one where everyone, regardless of their physical or mental challenges, can participate fully and equitably. The establishment of the Disability Commission is a promise of a brighter, more accessible future for all.
