The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, has called on the leadership of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) to foster unity and speak with one voice in advancing the cause of disability inclusion and empowerment across Nigeria.
Ayuba made the call on Thursday, October 9, 2025, when he received the leadership of JONAPWD, Abuja Chapter, led by its Acting Chairman, Mr. Ayoade Beyioku-Alase, during a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary emphasized that unity among the various disability clusters is crucial for meaningful progress. He reminded the association that leadership should be seen as a call to service, urging members to prioritize collaboration and collective advocacy over personal interests.
“With a population of over 35 million persons with disabilities in Nigeria, unity gives you the power to decide who becomes the President, the governor, or even a local government chairman,” Hon. Ayuba stated. “Persons with disabilities are not beggars. You deserve respect, dignity, and equal opportunity, and that can only be achieved when you speak with one voice.”
Reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to supporting JONAPWD, Ayuba disclosed that the establishment of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Agency for Persons with Disabilities remains a top priority for the Commission. He noted that discussions are ongoing with relevant authorities to ensure the agency’s creation, which will provide tailored services and support to the growing population of persons with disabilities within the FCT.
He commended the association’s leadership for their collaboration and consistency, encouraging them to maintain inclusivity in their activities and decisions.
Earlier, Mr. Ayoade Beyioku-Alase, Acting Chairman of JONAPWD, expressed gratitude to the Commission for its continuous support, particularly the recent provision of farm equipment and fertilizer to members—a gesture he described as both “timely and impactful.”
He presented several requests on behalf of the association, including the establishment of the FCT Disability Agency, financial subvention, recognition of the FCT Secretariat, office support, and accessibility assistance.
In his goodwill message, the Director of Social Integration, Mr. Lawrence Idemudia Edelifo, reaffirmed the Commission’s long-standing support for JONAPWD, while Dr. Ogunbiyitan Kehinde, Head of Educational Services, urged the association to extend its outreach to rural and underserved communities within the FCT.
Members of the delegation also appealed to the Executive Secretary to engage the FCT Minister on the inclusion of accessible vehicles for persons with disabilities under the ongoing FCT transportation scheme.
The meeting ended on a cordial note, with both parties pledging to strengthen collaboration towards promoting disability inclusion and ensuring that no one is left behind.
Those who joined the Executive Secretary to receive the delegation included Barr. Ikem Uchegbulam, Director of Enforcement and Compliance; Mr. Bitrus Sule, Director of Accessibility; Mr. Carl, Head of General Services; and Dr. Ogunbiyitan Kehinde, Head of Educational Services.
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