As part of activities to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Federal Ministry of Health, in partnership with the United Nations, hosted an event at the Reiz Continental Hotel in Abuja. The celebration highlighted the theme, “Leadership of Persons with Disabilities: A Pathway to an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.”
The gathering brought together key stakeholders, advocates, and government officials to evaluate the progress of the disability community and address the persistent challenges faced by persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria.
In his keynote address, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), emphasized the urgent need to break down systemic barriers hindering the full potential of PWDs. He stressed the importance of investing in accessibility, education, and economic opportunities while combating stigma and discrimination.
“For our society to thrive, we must create an enabling environment where persons with disabilities can lead and contribute meaningfully,” Hon. Gufwan stated. “This begins with recognizing their leadership potential and removing barriers to their full participation.”
Hon. Gufwan also acknowledged the Ministry of Health’s vital role in addressing health-related disabilities and lauded the United Nations for its consistent advocacy for the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities. He called for disability-inclusive policies that address intersectional issues such as gender, age, and socioeconomic disparities.
Highlighting the NCPWD’s dedication, he expressed the Commission’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to promote accessibility, raise awareness, and develop empowering initiatives for PWDs. “We must move beyond tokenism. Inclusion is not just a moral obligation—it is a necessity for building a truly progressive nation,” he added.
Representing the Senior Special Adviser to the President on Health and Social Welfare, Ahmad Baba reaffirmed the federal government’s dedication to implementing disability-inclusive policies. He emphasized the importance of raising awareness about disability issues at both national and local levels, advocating for strategic resource allocation and inclusive programs.
Delivering the keynote speech on behalf of the Honourable Minister of State for Health, Mr. John Ovuoraye reviewed the Ministry’s strides in enforcing the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018 and highlighted initiatives aimed at achieving universal health coverage for PWDs.
The event’s highlights included the donation of assistive devices such as white canes and walkers to beneficiaries from various disability clusters, reflecting ongoing government efforts to improve the quality of life for PWDs.
In conclusion, Hon. Gufwan reiterated his call for society to view persons with disabilities as assets rather than liabilities. He urged all stakeholders to amplify the leadership potential of PWDs, noting that inclusion is a fundamental necessity for a truly sustainable and progressive nation.
The NCPWD remains resolute in its mission to champion the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities in all facets of national life, working toward a future where barriers are dismantled, and equality thrives.
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