The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has officially launched a nationwide training initiative aimed at promoting inclusive justice systems in Nigeria. The program, titled “A Strong Barrier to Access to Justice for Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria,” commenced with an inaugural session held on Monday, 20th May 2025, at Pave Hotel and Suites in Kado, Abuja.
This capacity-building effort spans all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory and is designed to engage critical stakeholders across the justice sector, including officers from the Nigeria Correctional Service, the Nigeria Police Force, and other relevant institutions.
In his opening remarks, the Executive Secretary of the NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, highlighted the urgent need to reform justice systems to eliminate the barriers faced by persons with disabilities. He described access to justice as a fundamental human right and underscored how systemic, physical, and attitudinal obstacles continue to exclude millions of Nigerians with disabilities from full legal participation. He urged justice actors to become advocates for equity and dignity, stressing that justice must be inclusive and accessible to all.
The training addressed a wide range of themes essential to fostering an inclusive legal environment. Participants explored national and international legal standards related to disability rights, and examined how physical and procedural accessibility can serve as the foundation of a fair justice system. Discussions also focused on the intersection of gender and disability, especially the heightened risks faced by women and girls, and emphasized the need for law enforcement agencies to actively protect the rights of persons with disabilities while eliminating all forms of discrimination within the system.
Delivering the keynote address, the Commission’s Director of Compliance and Enforcement, Prince Ikem Uchegbulam Esq, called for a reexamination of institutional norms and practices from a disability rights perspective. He warned against both overt and subtle forms of discrimination and emphasized the importance of moving from token gestures to meaningful, systemic inclusion. According to him, the training marks a significant step toward embedding respect, accessibility, and compliance within justice and correctional frameworks.
The event witnessed strong engagement from participating agencies, with attendees expressing appreciation for the opportunity to broaden their understanding of the legal and ethical obligations owed to persons with disabilities. The NCPWD reaffirmed its commitment to working in partnership with the judiciary, law enforcement, and civil society to remove all discriminatory barriers and build a justice system that truly reflects the values of dignity, equality, and inclusion for every Nigerian.
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