The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has welcomed the adoption of a landmark United Nations General Assembly resolution on access to assistive technology, describing it as a major step towards advancing inclusion, equity and opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) globally.
The resolution, presented by Pakistan and co-sponsored by more than 40 UN Member States, was adopted by consensus on September 2, 2026. It recognizes assistive technology as an essential component of sustainable development, universal health coverage and the realization of the rights of Persons with Disabilities and older persons.
Reacting to the development, the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, said the resolution reinforces Nigeria’s obligations under the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act and aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.
Gufwan stressed that assistive technology should not be treated as a luxury, but as an essential tool for participation and independent living.
“Assistive technology is not a luxury. It is an essential enabler of participation and independent living,” he said, noting that wheelchairs, hearing aids, screen readers and prosthetics help persons with disabilities access education, employment, healthcare, communication and community life.
According to him, the resolution is particularly significant for Nigeria, where improving access to appropriate, affordable and quality-assured assistive technology remains critical to ensuring the full participation of PWDs in national development.
He commended the United Nations for emphasizing the integration of assistive technology into national health, education, labour and social protection systems, while calling attention to the need for sustainable financing, local production, innovation, specialized personnel and efficient supply chains.
The NCPWD Executive Secretary also highlighted the importance of improved data collection, research and innovation to support evidence-based planning and provide a clearer understanding of assistive technology needs across the country.
Gufwan reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to collaborating with development partners, universities, manufacturers, rehabilitation professionals, Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) and other stakeholders to expand access to assistive technology across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
“This UN resolution gives us renewed momentum. NCPWD will continue to champion policies, partnerships and programmes that ensure no Nigerian is left behind because of lack of access to the right assistive device,” he said.
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