The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) and the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding employment opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria.
This was the focus of a high-level meeting held in Abuja between NCPWD Executive Secretary, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, and NDE Director General, Hon. Silas Ali Agara.
During the meeting, both organizations emphasized the need for stronger collaboration to ensure that PWDs are not left behind in employment initiatives. Discussions centered on the enforcement of existing policies, the introduction of new skill acquisition programs, and strategies to enhance economic empowerment for individuals with disabilities.
Hon. Ayuba Gufwan stressed that disability inclusion should not be treated as an act of charity but as a fundamental right. He called for a shift from rhetoric to action, urging government agencies and stakeholders to implement policies that guarantee PWDs equitable access to employment. He also commended the NDE for its commitment to inclusive training programs and economic empowerment initiatives.
However, Gufwan also pointed out key challenges hindering the employment of PWDs, including inadequate budgetary allocations and poor enforcement of the 5% employment quota for PWDs in government institutions. He urged Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to fully comply with this policy to promote workplace inclusivity.
In response, Hon. Silas Ali Agara reaffirmed the NDE’s dedication to equipping PWDs with essential skills for financial independence. He revealed that under the Renewed Hope Initiatives program, the agency had trained over 3,000 individuals, including PWDs, across 27 states. According to him, the NDE has taken deliberate steps to make its training programs more inclusive by engaging Sign Language interpreters for hearing-impaired trainees.
To further empower beneficiaries, the NDE has partnered with the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to provide starter kits to trainees upon completion of their programs. This initiative aims to help PWDs start their own businesses, ensuring sustainable economic independence.
The NDE also announced the allocation of 3,000 training slots exclusively for PWDs in the upcoming training cycle set to begin in May. Hon. Agara encouraged eligible PWDs to take advantage of the opportunity by registering for the program through the appropriate channels.
As part of efforts to ensure the smooth implementation of these initiatives, the NDE proposed the establishment of a joint committee comprising representatives from both organizations. This committee will oversee the execution of inclusive training programs and ensure that key objectives are met.
The meeting concluded with both institutions reaffirming their commitment to building a more inclusive workforce in Nigeria. They emphasized that a society that supports PWDs in securing sustainable employment is one that fosters economic growth and development.
The partnership between the NCPWD and NDE marks a significant step toward eliminating barriers and creating equal employment opportunities for PWDs. Stakeholders expressed optimism that the collaboration will yield lasting benefits and improve the economic well-being of persons with disabilities across the country.
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3 comments
Thank you for the inclusion God bless you all.
You never regret for including us in any of your program inshallah.
Am proud of you all keep the good work moving among the PWDs God bless.