The Executive Secretary, National Commission For Persons With Disability, Dr. James David Lalu, has reassured the disability community of the Commissions relentless efforts to ensure inclusivity among Persons With Disability and to also make certain that Persons With Disability are not left behind in National development.
In a summit themed: “Addressing Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria through a Multi-faceted Approach” recently hosted by the Office of the Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunity in Abuja, Lalu spoke passionately about the commission’s efforts and commitments towards greater opportunities for Persons with Disability in Nigeria.
“This laudable event will serve as a platform for raising awareness and also highlighting the urgent need for inclusive policies and practices across various sectors in Nigeria” he said.
However, the event which was also identified as the “Inter-Ministerial/Sub-National Disability Awareness Summit” marked the official launch of several groundbreaking initiatives aimed at improving the lives of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
These initiatives collectively aim to create a more inclusive society, promote equal opportunities, and provide crucial supports for the community.
The launch of the Disability Trust Fund (DTF) is set to be a vital financial resource that will support various programs and initiatives which will be aimed at empowering persons with disabilities.
The database of Persons with Disabilities was another critical launch that will provide a comprehensive and accurate repository of information which will aid in better planning and implementation of disability-inclusive policies. The ‘Beyond Disability Project’ and ‘Golden Law’ 2018 strides towards eliminating barriers and fostering an environment where persons with disabilities can thrive.
These initiatives are designed to challenge societal perceptions and dismantle systemic discrimination, and ensuring that every person, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
Overall, the summit was a landmark event that underscored the Nigerian government’s and societal collective resolve to address the challenges faced by persons with disabilities.
It also showcased a unified front, with diverse stakeholders from different sectors coming together to champion the cause of disability inclusion. The enthusiasm and commitment displayed at the summit provides hope and momentum for ongoing and future efforts to create true inclusion for Persons With Disabilities in Nigeria.
Present at the meeting were the Honorable Minister of Youth development, Dr.Jamila Bio Ibrahim who pointed out the lag in the government’s commitments to empowering young people with disabilities; the host, Senior Special Assistant to the President Hon. Abba Issa, the Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Bishop Ignatius Ayau Kaigama also graced the occasion, lending his moral support and highlighting the role of faith communities in advocating for disability rights.
Others were members of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Disabilities whose presence demonstrated legislative backing for the initiatives, the rest were leaders from various disability communities, providing invaluable insights and perspectives that enriched the discourse.