The Executive Director of the Inclusive Friends Association (IFA), Grace Jerry, has revealed that over 40 million Nigerians are living with disabilities — a significant demographic that demands targeted legislative and policy attention.
She made this statement during a One-Day Technical Review Session on the Benue State Disability Bill, organized by IFA in collaboration with the Benue State Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD) and the Benue State House of Assembly Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development.
Jerry emphasized the urgent need for a stand-alone Disability Bill in Benue State, similar to what is obtainable in other parts of the country. “Persons with disabilities represent a large population — over 40 million people across Nigeria. It is therefore imperative that Benue State enacts a stand-alone Disability Bill to safeguard their rights and improve their quality of life,” she said.
She described the review session as a collective effort aimed at strengthening the legal framework to promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities in the state. “This session is critical to our commitment to inclusion, equity, and justice. Once finalized, the Disability Bill will align with both national and international standards, serving as a beacon of hope and empowerment for thousands across the state,” she added.
Jerry further noted that the session brought together government officials, civil society groups, technical experts, and members of the disability community to ensure the bill is tailored to the real-life needs of people with disabilities in Benue State.
Representing the Deputy Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly and Chair of the Committee on Women Affairs, Hon. Kennedy Angbo of Otukpo-Akpa Constituency confirmed that the Bill had passed its first and second readings. He assured stakeholders that the legislative process would be seen through to ensure the Bill’s passage and assent.
Also speaking, the Director General of BICD, Dr. Leo-Angelo Viashima, praised all the partners and groups that contributed to the Bill’s development. He commended Governor Hyacinth Alia for taking a personal interest in the Bill and ensuring collaboration with the House of Assembly to bring it to its current stage. “We will ensure there are no flaws in this legislation,” he stated.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Mr. Fidelis Mnyim, represented by Sunday Sabeh of the Citizens’ Rights Mediation Centre, stressed the importance of inclusive legislation as a tool for integrating persons with disabilities into society. “Disability can be physical or mental. This Bill is structured to address the unique needs of both categories,” he said.
He added that once enacted, the law would require public infrastructure to accommodate people with disabilities, noting that non-compliance would constitute an offence.
Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Mr. Onah Adeyi, described the review session as a significant milestone. He applauded IFA’s efforts and the state government’s support, urging lawmakers to fast-track the Bill’s passage.
In an overview of the Bill, legal partner Joseph Gbagyo disclosed that the Benue State Disability Bill comprises 17 Parts and 59 Sections. He said the proposed law provides for the establishment of a Disability Rights Commission to oversee implementation, monitor compliance, investigate complaints, raise awareness, and enforce penalties for violations.
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