In a landmark development, the Benue State House of Assembly today took a bold step towards inclusivity and social justice by passing the Benue State Persons with Disabilities Bill 2024 for its First Reading.
The passage marks a significant milestone in the quest to provide legal frameworks for the protection and empowerment of persons with disabilities in the state.
Presenting the bill during the plenary session, the Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Saater Tiseer, emphasized the importance of the proposed legislation. He highlighted its potential to significantly enhance the lives of persons with disabilities by addressing key issues such as accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunities. According to Hon. Tiseer, the bill underscores the Assembly’s commitment to ensuring that all citizens, regardless of physical ability, can contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.
The push for this bill has been championed by numerous advocacy groups and civil society organizations. Notably, Hope Alive for Possibilities Initiative (HAPI) and Inclusive Friends Association (IFA) have been at the forefront of this campaign. These organizations have tirelessly worked to raise awareness about the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and to advocate for policies that prioritize their needs.
Benue State remains the only state in North Central Nigeria without a disability-focused law, making this legislative effort particularly timely and impactful. Advocates argue that passing the bill into law will not only align Benue with national and international standards but also serve as a catalyst for fostering inclusivity and equity across the region.
Stakeholders have expressed optimism that the bill will progress swiftly through subsequent readings. They are urging lawmakers to prioritize the concerns of persons with disabilities and ensure that the final legislation adequately addresses their needs. Provisions in the bill are expected to include mandatory accessibility standards, anti-discrimination measures, and enhanced support for education and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.
If passed into law, the Benue State Persons with Disabilities Bill 2024 will set a precedent for other states in the region. It would signal a new era of inclusion and demonstrate the state’s dedication to creating an environment where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive.