The Bauchi State House of Assembly has been urged to expedite action on the passage of the Commission for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) Bill currently before it. The call was made by the Executive Secretary of the Bauchi State Agency for Persons with Disabilities, Briska Jarom Aaron, during the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities celebration held at the Agency’s headquarters.
Jarom stressed that establishing the Commission is crucial to creating a strong legal and institutional framework that will drive disability-inclusive development across the state. According to her, the Commission will guarantee sustainable implementation of programmes, protection of rights, and equitable access to opportunities for all persons with disabilities in Bauchi.
She noted that the annual observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities goes beyond symbolism, describing it as a renewed call to action for government institutions, development partners, and communities to work collectively towards building an inclusive state where PWDs can live with dignity and reach their full potential. She also appreciated the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Bauchi State First Lady, and other partners for their continued support to the Agency.
Delivering a message on behalf of the UNFPA Executive Director, Diene Keita, the Gender and Reproductive Health Analyst highlighted that full inclusion and safety of persons with disabilities remains vital to achieving a fair and equitable world, especially in the digital era. She noted that one in six people globally lives with a disability, and for many, digital technology has become an essential tool for empowerment, enhancing social connection, expanding job opportunities, and supporting daily activities.
Keita, however, cautioned that certain protection efforts unintentionally limit the independence of persons with disabilities by restricting their access to technology instead of ensuring safer digital environments. She further emphasised the need for services that can prevent and respond to technology-facilitated violence, stressing that such support must be accessible and available in formats that PWDs can use without relying on others.
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