The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has hosted a delegation from the Sterling Inclusive Education and Development Initiative (SIEDI) during a courtesy visit to the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, in Abuja.
Receiving the delegation in his office on March 31, 2026, the Executive Secretary expressed appreciation for SIEDI’s commitment to advancing inclusive education in Nigeria. He stressed the importance of collaboration and unity among stakeholders in promoting the rights and wellbeing of persons with disabilities, describing inclusive education as a key priority for the Commission.
Gufwan also acknowledged the challenges facing the disability sector, particularly inadequate budgetary allocation, while reaffirming the Commission’s determination to address barriers confronting persons with disabilities.
Speaking on behalf of the visiting organisation, the Executive Director of SIEDI, Mrs. Patience Agbamu, commended the Commission for its ongoing efforts in promoting disability rights. She highlighted the organisation’s focus on inclusive education and disability advocacy, noting that its work aligns closely with the mandate of the Commission. Agbamu further disclosed plans for a six-month inclusive education pilot project and emphasised the need for sustained collaboration to ensure effective implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018.
Key issues discussed during the meeting included strengthening advocacy engagement, activating referral pathways for reporting rights violations against persons with disabilities, and enhancing coordinated response systems to ensure accessible, safe, and timely support for victims. Participants also underscored the importance of collaboration among relevant institutions, including the National Human Rights Commission, Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, Federal Ministry of Justice, Nigeria Police Force, and civil society organisations, to promote accountability and protect the rights of persons with disabilities.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepen partnerships and strengthen mechanisms that safeguard the rights, dignity, and protection of persons with disabilities across Nigeria.
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