Connected Development (CODE), an organisation known for its “Follow the Money” initiative, visited the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) to seek collaboration on the implementation of the Persons with Disabilities Discrimination (Prohibition) Act of 2018.
The meeting took place at the NCPWD headquarters in Abuja, with Dr. James D. Lalu, Executive Secretary of the Commission, receiving the delegation.
The CODE delegation, led by Mr. Kingsley Agu lauded Dr. Lalu’s enthusiasm and openness in facilitating the meeting.
“We are thrilled by the Commission’s readiness to engage with us,” said Agu. “Our goal is to ensure the robust implementation of the disability rights law across Nigeria, and we believe that working together with NCPWD will make this vision a reality.”
Dr. Lalu welcomed the partnership with CODE, showcasing the Commission’s strides in policy-making to protect and promote the rights of persons with disabilities.
According to him, “NCPWD has developed significant policies and regulations aimed at enhancing the lives of persons with disabilities. We are committed to collaborating with CODE to address accessibility challenges. This partnership will include drafting a memorandum of understanding to define our collaborative framework.”
Dr. Lalu highlighted the importance of engaging diverse stakeholders, including banks and educational institutions, to ensure the widespread adoption of accessibility regulations. “Our efforts are directed at making all public spaces and services accessible to persons with disabilities, setting a benchmark for inclusivity,” he added.
Aisha Dijil, Technical Assistant to the Executive Secretary, emphasized the need for greater advocacy in inclusive education.
“Our Executive Secretary often reminds us that disability should never be overlooked. There is a critical need for more advocacy in inclusive education, and we believe this partnership will help fill that gap,” Dijil noted.
The alliance between CODE and NCPWD underscores a shared commitment to advancing disability rights in Nigeria. Both organizations are dedicated to transforming the provisions of the Persons with Disabilities Discrimination (Prohibition) Act of 2018 into concrete improvements for persons with disabilities nationwide.