As the world marks the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), the Centre for Infrastructural and Technological Advancement for the Blind (CITAB) has called on the Federal Government to urgently address the rising cost of Assistive Technology (AT) and the persistent gaps in inclusive employment for blind and visually impaired Nigerians.
The appeal was contained in a statement released on Tuesday in Lagos and signed by CITAB’s Executive Chairman, Jolomi George Fenemigho, as part of activities commemorating this year’s IDPD. The Day, observed globally since 1992, promotes the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities and highlights the barriers that continue to hinder full inclusion.
Fenemigho, speaking on the lived challenges of accessibility, expressed concern over the unaffordable cost of essential assistive devices. “When something as basic as a braille device or screen reader becomes financially out of reach, it locks out bright, ambitious blind people from opportunities. It is heartbreaking—and unjust,” he said.
He further lamented the lack of effective implementation of inclusive employment laws, including the 5 percent employment quota for persons with disabilities in public service. “It’s not enough to give us skills if nobody will give us a chance to use them. We want to work and contribute meaningfully to our country, not stand on the sidelines because the systems remain inaccessible.”
CITAB stressed that urgent government action is required to reduce the soaring cost of assistive devices by removing tariffs and VAT on accredited products, while ensuring strict enforcement of the 5 percent employment quota across public institutions through proper monitoring and reporting systems. The organisation also emphasized the need for all government and private digital platforms—as well as educational institutions—to comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 to eliminate digital barriers that continue to hinder visually impaired Nigerians from applying their skills effectively.
Fenemigho concluded with a strong appeal for genuine commitment to disability inclusion. “We are not asking for favors; we are demanding our rights. The law exists, the skills are available, and the technology is real. What remains is action. Let 2025 be the year we finally open long-closed doors.”
CITAB also called on disability advocates, organizations, and allies nationwide to unite in pushing for meaningful reforms. “No single group can win this fight alone. But together, we can build a Nigeria where no one is left behind,” Fenemigho said.
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