The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has initiated a pivotal two-day sensitization workshop on accessibility regulations for persons with disabilities, in partnership with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (ROLAC) program funded by the European Union. This workshop marks a significant stride towards the implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018 and the promotion of a more inclusive Nigeria.
In his opening remarks, Dr. James David Lalu, the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, commended ROLAC for their unwavering dedication to ensuring the implementation of the Discrimination Prohibition Act. He praised the heads of institutions across various states for their steadfast commitment to inclusivity for persons with disabilities, highlighting their essential role in driving systemic change.
Dr. Lalu emphasized the progress made by the Commission in enhancing accessibility for persons with disabilities in Nigeria. He addressed the ongoing challenges, such as funding constraints and widespread ignorance on the importance of accessibility. “Despite these hurdles, we are resolute in our mission to create an inclusive society,” Dr. Lalu asserted.
The Executive Secretary also acknowledged the efforts of other key institutions and organizations. He lauded the Central Bank of Nigeria for ensuring that all banking facilities are accessible to persons with disabilities. Additionally, he recognized the Ministry of Education for their strides in making primary, secondary, and tertiary educational institutions accessible, thus promoting equal educational opportunities.
Furthermore, Dr. Lalu emphasized the critical importance of passing the amendment bill of the Disability Act, which seeks to establish a Disability Trust Fund. This fund is expected to play a pivotal role in fostering an inclusive society. He appealed to the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Honorable Akin Rotimi, who was present at the event and is also the bill’s sponsor in the House of Representatives. The bill has already passed its first reading.
In a groundbreaking announcement, Honorable Akin Rotimi celebrated the historic introduction of a sign language interpreter during the plenary sessions of the 10th assembly. This milestone underscores the legislative commitment to inclusivity and the recognition of the rights of persons with disabilities. Honorable Rotimi graciously acknowledged the instrumental role played by the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Dr. James David Lalu, in achieving this historic milestone.