Network of Women with Disabilities (NWD) has launched an awareness campaign on the need for women with disabilities to participate in the electoral process, governance and economic activities.
The group made the call during a press conference where it called on Nigerians to join in its awareness rally on Wednesday 14 February, 2023, even as it plans to present a charter of demands for an inclusive society.
The awareness campaign is being done in partnership with Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA), and supported by MacArthur Foundation.
Godiya John, Media and Communication Officer, NWD FCT Chapter observed that women with disabilities are not fully integrated into societal activities and there is data to support it.
She notes that several barriers are hindering women with disabilities from living independent lives, especially in Nigeria. Godiya laments that women with disabilities have been left behind for too long and this needs to change.
She assured that concerted effort is being made to ensure better integration of women with Disabilities in every sector in Nigeria.
According to the media officer, the planned charter of demands aims to prioritize inclusion and participation of women with disabilities in politics and other sectors.
She expressed confidence that this charter of demands will serve as mechanism for developmental processes with special focus on women with disabilities.
Her words: “We urge the Nigerian government to highlight the efforts that will allow women with disabilities to enjoy their basic rights and live decent, independent lives. We believe that women with disabilities can live independently and that this can be accomplished by providing guaranteed, decent work and opportunities”.
Mary Musa, Legal practitioner and Secretary, Network of Women with Disabilities, calls for safety, security and protection of People with Disabilities (PWDs) during the general elections.
She decries that several advocacy efforts by the group have fallen on deaf ears because politicians are not willing to engage women with disabilities and meet their needs.
According to her, women with disabilities are the most vulnerable and poorest among Persons with Disabilities and they deserve all the attention they can get.
Mrs. Rose Daniel, Vice President II, NWD, urges Government to prioritize education, empowerment and health of Persons with Disabilities.
On the coming polls, she reassured PWD voters: “we have engaged INEC, and several relevant stakeholders and they have assured us of their commitments to ensure that PWDs are secured at the polling units while enjoying priority voting irrespective of disability”.