Dr. Adedayo Benjamin, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Mandate Secretary, has called for the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in leadership roles to unlock their full potential and ensure a more inclusive society.
Speaking at the inaugural stakeholders’ conference on Disability Inclusion in Nigeria, organized by the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) in Abuja, Dr. Benjamin emphasized that such inclusion is crucial for addressing issues like violence against women and PWDs.
“The world will not be complete without the inclusion of PWDs. This is not just advocacy but a legacy,” she stated, adding that her first step as the pioneer Mandate Secretary for Women’s Matters was to establish a Disability Desk in her office.
She further urged stakeholders to prioritize the protection of women’s rights, stressing that investing in women directly benefits PWDs and their communities.
Legislative Backing for Inclusion
Hon. Bashiru Daudu, Chairman of the House Committee on Disability Matters, while declaring the conference open, highlighted that empowering PWDs in leadership positions fosters community development and cohesion. Represented by Hon. Lanre Okunola, he reaffirmed the House’s commitment to enacting legislation that supports the aspirations of PWDs.
Advocacy for Sustainable Inclusion
JONAPWD President, Mr. Abdullahi Usman, urged the government to prioritize the inclusion of PWDs in leadership, describing it as essential for equality, social justice, and sustainable development.
“We are advocating for the active involvement of PWDs in policy-making processes that directly impact their lives,” he said. Referring to the motto, “Nothing About Us Without Us,” he underscored the importance of full participation and equal opportunities for PWDs.
Addressing Economic and Leadership Gaps
Delivering the keynote address titled, ‘Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,’ Dr. Jummai Umar-Ajijola stressed that inclusion in leadership requires increased representation and economic empowerment.
“The unemployment rate among PWDs remains disproportionately high,” she said, citing National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) data. “Addressing this challenge demands collaborative action from private, public, and civil society sectors. Economic empowerment is key to enabling leadership roles for PWDs.”
She also called for active participation of PWDs in governmental policies and programs, noting that this cannot happen without adequate representation in governance structures.
JONAPWD’s Ongoing Advocacy
Since its establishment in 1992, JONAPWD has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of Nigerians with disabilities. The organization has championed inclusive governance, education, and economic empowerment for PWDs, while partnering with global bodies like the Disability Rights Fund to advance its mission.
By amplifying calls for PWDs in leadership, JONAPWD aims to create a society where everyone can contribute meaningfully, ensuring equity and inclusion for all.
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