As preparations for the 2025 Global Disability Summit intensify, The Albino Foundation Africa (TAF Africa) has urged Nigeria’s disability community to remain united in its advocacy. The call comes as the country gears up to participate in the high-profile summit, slated for April 2–3 in Berlin, Germany, under the auspices of the International Disability Alliance, Germany, and Jordan.
Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, TAF Africa’s CEO, Jake Epelle, underscored the importance of a coordinated approach to ensure Nigeria’s representation is both impactful and strategic.
“We must go to this summit with a clear, unified position,” Epelle stressed. “If we speak in different directions, we risk diluting our message. Instead, we need a voice that strongly advocates for the rights, inclusion, and aspirations of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in Nigeria.”
A key focus of the summit will be securing commitments from governments, organizations, and stakeholders on disability inclusion. According to Epelle, it is crucial for Nigeria to actively participate in shaping these commitments, whether in the areas of accessibility, empowerment, or engagement with key decision-makers.
“Commitments made at the summit carry significant weight,” he explained. “If your focus is on inclusion, women’s empowerment, or policy reforms, you must clearly outline those commitments and ensure they are recognized on the global stage.”
Epelle also called for Nigeria to elevate its role in global disability advocacy by becoming a co-sponsor of future summits, as countries like Kenya and Ghana have done. He emphasized that such a move would reinforce Nigeria’s dedication to advancing the rights of PwDs and strengthening disability-inclusive policies.
“The Global Disability Summit is a platform to drive meaningful change. Nigeria should step up as a leader in this space,” he concluded.
With the summit set to mobilize international efforts for disability inclusion, stakeholders across Nigeria are expected to align their priorities and present a strong, cohesive stance on advancing the rights and welfare of PwDs.
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