In a groundbreaking event commemorating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, 2024, women with disabilities advocated for the reservation of seats for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria’s National Assembly.
The call for inclusion was made during the National Convention on the Representation and Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in the Ongoing Constitutional Reforms.
The event was organized by the Network of Women with Disabilities, supported by UN Women, in collaboration with the National Assembly.
Speaking at the convention, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Dr. Benjamin Kalu, underscored the importance of inclusivity in governance. “Disability does not define the ability to lead, create, or inspire. Inclusion is both a necessity and justice,” he stated, reinforcing the commitment of the National Assembly to address the concerns of PWDs.
Lois Auta, the Chief Executive Officer of the Network of Women with Disabilities, presented a comprehensive memorandum on behalf of over 30 million Nigerians with disabilities. The memo, delivered to the Speaker through Dr. Kalu and the Chairman of the Constitutional Review Committee, called for practical measures to ensure disability inclusion. Among the key demands was the reservation of designated seats in the National Assembly for both men and women with disabilities.
The convention, held at the Library Conference Hall within the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, was lauded as a historic milestone. It marked the first time the International Day of Persons with Disabilities was celebrated at the National Assembly and the first occasion where lawmakers directly hosted representatives of disability-focused organizations.
Participants at the event emphasized the symbolic significance of holding the event at such a high level of governance. They argued that it demonstrated a growing recognition of the rights and potential contributions of PWDs in shaping Nigeria’s political and social landscape.
UN Women, a co-organizer of the event, reaffirmed its commitment to advancing gender and disability inclusivity in governance and policy-making. The organization praised the collaborative efforts between lawmakers and advocacy groups, describing them as a pivotal step toward achieving a truly inclusive Nigeria.
The call for reserved seats in the National Assembly for PWDs reflects a broader push for constitutional reforms aimed at reducing systemic barriers and enhancing representation for marginalized groups. Stakeholders expressed hope that the event would inspire more actionable outcomes, ensuring that the voices of PWDs are heard and respected in the highest echelons of decision-making.
As Nigeria continues its journey toward inclusivity, the demands of women with disabilities for designated parliamentary seats serve as a reminder of the need for intentional and sustained efforts to leave no one behind.
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