In a recent meeting held in Abuja with members of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (ROLAC), Chief Ayuba Gufwan, Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), emphasized that the Commission is the culmination of relentless advocacy and aspirations from the Disability Community in Nigeria, striving for an inclusive governance framework.
During his address, Gufwan expressed his commitment to establishing a strict zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, particularly concerning matters affecting Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria. He stated, “Corrupt practices hinder the progress, objectives, and goals of every organization, which is why we must exercise prudence with the resources entrusted to the Commission.”
Gufwan urged the staff of the Commission to remain dedicated and focused on achieving their established targets and goals, which are essential for promoting inclusive policies within the Disability Community. He acknowledged the growing population of Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria, asserting, “To ensure an inclusive society, I pledge to utilize all available resources to enhance the lives of Persons with Disabilities in our communities.”
Earlier in the meeting, ROLAC team leader Mr. Danladi Prang explained that their visit aimed to reaffirm support for the Commission and to assist in enhancing access to justice for Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria. He highlighted ROLAC’s significant role in advocating for the establishment of the 2018 Act against discrimination towards Persons with Disabilities, which led to the creation of the NCPWD.
Prang further shared that ROLAC’s mandate includes ongoing advocacy and sensitization efforts concerning the Disability Community, extending beyond national borders to state and local levels. He also announced ROLAC’s willingness to collaborate with the Commission for the upcoming International Day for Persons With Disabilities, scheduled for December 3rd.
The meeting concluded with a significant moment as Gufwan presented ROLAC with the Commission’s six-point agenda, outlining their strategic priorities.
ROLAC, a program of the British Council funded by the European Union, is dedicated to strengthening the application of the rule of law and combating corruption in Nigeria.