The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has pledged stronger collaboration with the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) as the Commission intensifies efforts toward the full enforcement of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018. This commitment was made during a strategic visit by the NCPWD leadership to the NOA Headquarters in Abuja.
Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, who led the delegation, emphasized that the five-year moratorium provided in the Disability Act has elapsed, placing Nigeria at a critical stage for enforcement. He highlighted the need for a National Disability Database, nationwide implementation of accessibility standards, and compliance with the 5% employment quota for persons with disabilities across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. He noted that effective collaboration with NOA is essential for nationwide awareness and sensitization.
Responding, the Director-General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to promoting the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. He stated that true empowerment lies in enabling citizens to understand and demand their rights, adding that NOA’s 818 offices nationwide position it as an important partner in driving the needed attitudinal and behavioral change. He also announced that the Agency will expand the use of sign language interpretation in its programmes and intensify public education on disability rights.
A key outcome of the meeting was the formation of a Joint Technical Committee between NCPWD and NOA. The committee will develop coordinated strategies for strengthening awareness, ensuring compliance with the Disability Act, and promoting a more inclusive society where no one is left behind.
The meeting ended with an exchange of documents and publications, symbolizing a renewed commitment between both agencies to championing disability inclusion across Nigeria.
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