NCPWD Pushes for N60 Billion Budget Allocation in 2025 During Meeting with House Speaker

On October 23, 2024, Chief Ayuba Gufwan, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), met with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, at the National Assembly. The purpose of the visit was to advocate for a significant increase in the Commission’s budgetary allocation for 2025—from N4 billion to N60 billion.

Chief Gufwan outlined the urgent need for a larger budget to effectively serve the millions of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria. He explained that the additional funds would be used to provide scholarships for PWDs, ensuring they have access to higher education. It would also enhance the provision of essential mobility aids and appliances, such as wheelchairs and hearing devices, which are vital to improving the quality of life for PWDs. The budget would further support the Commission’s empowerment programs, offering business grants to PWDs to help them achieve financial independence and create employment opportunities.

The proposed increase would also enable the reconstruction and renovation of the Commission’s zonal offices, ensuring they are accessible and capable of delivering services more effectively. Moreover, it would expand the Commission’s medical outreach efforts, providing much-needed healthcare services to PWDs, especially in underserved areas.

Chief Gufwan highlighted the critical importance of the request, stating, “The current N4 billion allocation is insufficient to meet the pressing needs of over 35 million Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria. An increase to N60 billion is essential for the Commission to fulfill its mandate and ensure the inclusion of PWDs in all aspects of society.”

Speaker Abbas commended the NCPWD for its continued efforts to improve the lives of PWDs and assured the Executive Secretary that the National Assembly would carefully consider the request for increased funding, in line with the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable groups.

This meeting reaffirmed the NCPWD’s commitment to promoting the rights and wellbeing of Persons with Disabilities, as the Commission works to create a more inclusive society in Nigeria.