The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Mr. Ayuba Gwafan, led a walk yesterday to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
This year’s theme, “Transformative Solutions for Disability-Inclusive Development in Nigeria,” underscores the importance of innovation and collaboration in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities. The Commission dedicated two days to mark this year’s National Disability Day: December 2, 2024, with a walk from the National Disability Commission to Unity Fountain to raise awareness, and December 3, 2024, for a National Dialogue.
During a press conference, Mr. Gwafan appreciated the efforts of stakeholders and various disability clusters who joined the 2024 International Day for Persons with Disabilities.” He reiterated that the Commission was established to protect, promote, and enforce the rights of persons with disabilities in line with the principle, “Where there is a right, there is a remedy.”
He explained that the walk aims to monitor compliance with the Disability Act and facilitate enforcement, including sealing non-compliant premises or prosecuting defaulters. The Commission also collaborates with partners to advocate for awareness and inclusivity nationwide.
Speaking about the day’s activities, Mr. Gwafan stated: “Today’s walk, which I am leading from our office to Unity Fountain, alongside community stakeholders, is followed by tomorrow’s international dialogue at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel. This event will bring together government dignitaries, policy experts, development partners, and the diplomatic community to deliberate on advancing the rights of persons with disabilities.”
He highlighted the importance of addressing the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in Nigeria, aiming to modernize approaches and harness global opportunities. Nigeria is home to an estimated 35 million people with disabilities, forming a significant part of the global disability population.
The Executive Secretary emphasized that the Commission is working to create opportunities that promote awareness, understanding, and inclusivity. This year’s event aims to leverage global efforts to promote inclusive development, diversity, accessibility, equity, and the rights of persons with disabilities nationwide.
Mr. Gwafan shared his vision for persons with disabilities in Nigeria, committing to the full implementation of the Disability Act and the NCPWD’s 2022–2027 Strategic Plan. He assured that his team is dedicated to building a sustainable disability architecture to ensure the full realization of rights for persons with disabilities.
The proposed National Disability Inclusion Architecture (NDIA) will support the Commission’s institutional and infrastructural framework to drive and sustain social inclusion for over 35 million persons with disabilities in Nigeria. The NDIA is anchored on six key pillars:
1. Strengthening governance and institutional structures of the NCPWD and other statutory bodies involved in implementing the Disability Act.
2. Developing a National Disability Database.
3. Enforcing physical and digital accessibility across sectors.
4. Facilitating access to assistive technologies for persons with disabilities.
5. Promoting equal access to employment and economic empowerment.
6. Enhancing strategic public awareness.
Additionally, Mr. Gwafan noted that the Commission is working to capture data on persons with disabilities based on disability categories, age groups, and areas of residence across all local government areas nationwide.
Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Mr. Mohammed Abba Issa, also addressed the press conference. He welcomed stakeholders and extended the President’s greetings to all participants.
Mr. Issa emphasized the importance of creating awareness through events like the walk and praised the NCPWD’s efforts. He highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. He said:
“As the giant of Africa, we have implemented this convention and established institutional mechanisms to drive its realization through the National Commission.”
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