Women and girls with disabilities in Nigeria have been urged to receive stronger protection and equal access to justice as the world marks the 2026 International Women’s Day.
The call comes amid concerns that many women and girls with disabilities continue to face discrimination, harmful social norms and systemic barriers that prevent them from fully enjoying their rights and participating in society on an equal basis with others.
In a statement issued in Lagos, the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) said women and girls with disabilities experience multiple forms of discrimination in key areas such as education, employment, healthcare and family life. The organisation noted that they are also disproportionately affected by gender-based violence and exclusion from leadership and decision-making processes.
CCD further highlighted barriers including inaccessible courts, police stations and legal procedures, as well as limited access to affordable and disability-inclusive legal aid services, which often make it difficult for survivors to pursue justice.
Acting Director of CCD, Godwin Unumeri, called for urgent reforms to eliminate discriminatory laws and policies, strengthen protection mechanisms against gender-based violence and promote greater participation of women with disabilities in governance and justice institutions.
He also urged government, civil society groups, development partners and the media to intensify efforts to defend the rights of women and girls with disabilities, stressing that ensuring justice and protection for them would help advance equality and inclusion in society.
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