In a resolute commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by persons with disabilities in Nigeria, Cedar Seed Foundation (CSF) and 38 partners called for united action towards rescuing and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The groups made the call at the 3rd Edition of International Disability Dialogue press conference held on Sunday as part of activities lined up for the commemoration of the International Day of Persons With Disabilities.
The theme for this year is “United Action to Rescue and Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for, with, and by Persons with Disabilities.”
Lois Auta, the Founder/Executive Director of the Cedar Seed Foundation, said the theme underscores the need for collaboration amongst all key actors.
The WHO estimated that 1.3 billion people globally grapple with significant disabilities, and a staggering 80% of them reside in the Global South, constituting a noteworthy 16% of the world’s population equivalent to 1 in every 6 individuals. In Nigeria, recent data discloses that over 27 million Nigerians live with some form of disability as of 2020.
To mark the day, Cedar Seed Foundation raises awareness and advocate for the intrinsic benefits of fostering an inclusive and accessible society for all.
The Executive Director advocates urgent need for the mobilization of support for critical issues related to the inclusion of PWDs.
She urges call to set up a fund that will address issues that concern persons with disabilities.
According to her, “Public and private actors should work together to immediately implement the provisions of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Prohibition Act (2018) by complying with the provisions.
“All stakeholders promote interventions that would drive massive community based awareness on disability inclusion. All service providers incorporate the principles of Disability Inclusive Service Delivery (DISD) into their day to day operations.
Auta urges MDAa to promote improved budgeting for disability interventions and tasks donor agencies to increase available funding for Organizations of persons with disabilities.
“This is not just merely a call to action but a compelling directive to promote widespread awareness, dismantle barriers, and champion an inclusive and accessible society that redounds to the benefit of everyone. In unity, let us strive towards a world where every individual, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute meaningfully to a more equitable and sustainable future. Today, we celebrate 1.3 billion people in the world that has one form of disability or the other. Happy International Day for Persons with Disabilities 2023.” She said