In a bid to address the barriers to accessibility faced by Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), FAECARE Foundation has called for the establishment of an independent Disability Commission in Rivers State.
This appeal was made during an advocacy visit to the Director of Administration at the Rivers State Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation on November 14, 2024. The visit forms part of the foundation’s ongoing Disability Rights Initiative Project.
During the meeting, FAECARE Foundation emphasized the need for a rights-based approach to governance, advocating for the enactment of a comprehensive Disability Law in Rivers State. The foundation urged the ministry to partner with organizations and individuals to promote the rights of PWDs, ensure its offices are accessible to PWDs, and collaborate with other ministries to guarantee the accessibility of public and private facilities.
Mr. Owiriwa Darlington Esq., the Director of Administration, commended the foundation for its advocacy efforts and acknowledged PWDs as individuals with unique abilities. He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to championing the rights of PWDs and outlined the ongoing efforts to pass the Rivers State Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Bill 2024. The proposed legislation aims to enhance accessibility while imposing penalties for non-compliance.
He assured the delegation that the foundation’s recommendations would be presented to the Commissioner and expressed the ministry’s willingness to collaborate with FAECARE Foundation on future initiatives.
This advocacy visit marks a significant milestone in the push for disability rights and accessibility in Rivers State. In a statement, FAECARE Foundation reiterated its commitment to working with the ministry to safeguard and promote the rights of PWDs.