The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) has urged the Nigerian government and industry regulators to ensure the inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) benefit-sharing framework.
INN reports that, the PIA, a landmark legislation governing Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, provides a structure for benefit-sharing among host communities. However, despite its promise of fairness, the framework has overlooked PWDs. In response, CCD launched the “Inclusion of PWDs in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) Benefit-Sharing Structures and Processes in the Niger Delta” project, under the theme Ending Barriers Against Niger-Deltans with Disabilities (EBAND) through a high-level stakeholder consultative forum.
The event convened disability rights advocates, petroleum industry regulators, and development experts to explore ways to embed disability inclusion in PIA structures. Discussions focused on identifying gaps and developing actionable strategies for equitable resource distribution.
In his goodwill message, David Anyaele, a disability rights advocate emphasized the urgent need to dismantle systemic barriers against PWDs, particularly in the Niger Delta, where environmental challenges disproportionately affect vulnerable groups. He expressed confidence that the initiative would not only advance disability rights but also improve the socio-economic conditions of PWDs in the region.
Dr. Joseph Ekong, a development and political analyst, provided an in-depth assessment of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and its role in disability inclusion. His presentation, backed by statistical data and an inclusion matrix, examined PWD representation in PIA structures across Niger Delta states. Disability leaders from the region shared firsthand experiences, reinforcing the program’s relevance and timeliness.
Furthering the discussion, Mr. Godwin Unumeri offered insights into the project’s objectives, stressing the importance of collaboration and active participation. Representing the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Mrs. Ololade Auwal, Managing Director of the Host Community Development Trust Fund, delivered a welcome address. She detailed ongoing efforts to integrate PWDs into the PIA benefit-sharing mechanism.
The forum concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to push for meaningful disability inclusion in Nigeria’s petroleum industry, setting a strong foundation for equitable policies and resource allocation.
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