Abuja, Nigeria – Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), has reiterated the importance of inclusive development for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria. Speaking at a United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) workshop in Abuja, organized to mark the 2024 International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Gufwan highlighted the large population of PWDs in the country and the urgent need to prioritize their inclusion in national development plans.
“The PWD community in Nigeria is estimated at 35 million, a population larger than many countries. This underscores the need for accessibility in buildings, road infrastructure, and other critical areas,” Gufwan said.
He stressed the importance of mainstreaming PWDs into all development initiatives, emphasizing that their exclusion hinders equitable progress.
Addressing Accessibility Challenges
Hon. Gufwan noted that barriers to accessibility remain a significant challenge for PWDs in Nigeria, limiting their operations and opportunities. He called on stakeholders to emulate developed nations that integrate PWDs into planning and development.
Dr. Adebayo, a consultant with the NCPWD, commended the UNODC for its support for PWDs and advocated for comprehensive demographic data to facilitate targeted policy development.
“There is a need for detailed data on age, gender, and disability types to promote meaningful inclusion,” Dr. Adebayo said, adding that a robust justice system is also necessary to protect the rights of PWDs.
UNODC’s Inclusion Plans
Cheikh Toure, UNODC Country Director, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to advancing PWD inclusion. He revealed plans to engage two PWD interns in 2025 and extend opportunities to academically qualified PWDs in Nigeria.
“Our focus remains on ensuring accessibility and inclusion for PWDs as part of our broader developmental agenda,” Toure stated.
NDE Empowers 3,000 PWDs
In a related development, the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has employed 3,000 PWDs as part of its skill acquisition and empowerment program. Speaking at the unveiling ceremony in Bwari, Abuja, Hon. Gufwan lauded the initiative, noting that it would enhance financial independence and foster entrepreneurship among PWDs.
NDE Director General Hon. Silas Agara disclosed that 73,731 individuals were employed under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope plan aimed at job creation and poverty alleviation.
Conclusion
The collaborative efforts of NCPWD, UNODC, and NDE signal a growing commitment to addressing the needs of PWDs in Nigeria. With sustained advocacy and strategic initiatives, these programs aim to create a more inclusive society for millions of Nigerians with disabilities.
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