Experts, policymakers, and disability advocates have called for deliberate policy reforms to unlock the vast potential of persons with disabilities (PWDs) as part of Nigeria’s nation-building efforts.
The call was made at AbilityX 2025, Nigeria’s premier disability leadership conference held in Lagos and organised by Project Enable Africa. The conference attracted over 300 participants, including policymakers, private-sector executives, innovators, and disability rights advocates.
Held under the theme “The Future of Disability Inclusion in Nigeria,” the event examined how technology, data, policy, and innovation can drive sustainable inclusion for persons with disabilities. Discussions highlighted persistent gaps in policy implementation, employment, healthcare access, infrastructure, and representation, while also showcasing practical and scalable solutions across key sectors.
In his opening remarks, Dr Kola Olugbodi, Board Co-Chairman of Project Enable Africa, described Nigeria’s estimated 30 million persons with disabilities as a significant but underutilised talent pool. He called for intentional policy reforms, empowerment initiatives, and inclusive representation to harness this potential for national development.
The conference featured plenary sessions, breakout discussions, and fireside chats on inclusive data and budgeting, healthcare, finance, media, hospitality, employability, customer service, and workplace inclusion. Speakers stressed that inclusion must be embedded in systems and institutions rather than treated as charity.
Speaking on workplace inclusion, Esther Obele emphasised that inclusive workplaces are a right, not a favour, urging employers and policymakers to prioritise accessibility and equity in recruitment and organisational culture.
In a separate session, Oluwajuwonlo Esho highlighted the role of quality customer experience in driving loyalty and business sustainability.
In her keynote address, Temi Dalley, Group Executive at Sterling Financial Holdings, challenged prevailing narratives around disability, stating that inclusion is not optional but a strategic advantage. She urged stakeholders to move beyond awareness to actions that deliver measurable impact.
A highlight of the event was the AbilityX Impact Awards, which recognised organisations and individuals advancing disability inclusion, including Access Tech Innovation & Research Centre, MTN Nigeria, and Adejobi Adewoye.
Closing the conference, Olalekan Owonikoko, Executive Director of Project Enable Africa, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to translating conference outcomes into sustained action, noting that true inclusion requires implementation, accountability, and collaboration.
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