Disability advocates demand PWD inclusion in PIA benefits

The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) is pushing for the inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) benefit-sharing framework.

The group launched the ‘Inclusion of PWDs in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) Benefit-Sharing Structures and Processes in the Niger Delta’ project.

The campaign focuses on ending barriers against Niger Deltans with disabilities (EBAND).

At the stakeholders’ forum, disability rights advocates, petroleum industry regulators, and development experts addressed the exclusion of PWDs from the PIA’s benefit distribution.

David Anyaele, the executive director of CCD, highlighted the urgent need to dismantle systemic barriers, especially in the Niger Delta region, where environmental issues worsen vulnerabilities.

Joseph Ekong presented an analysis of the Niger Delta Development Commission’s (NDDC) role in disability inclusion, using statistical data and an inclusion matrix to assess PWD representation in PIA structures across the region.

Regional disability leaders shared their experiences, restating the project’s importance.

Godwin Unumeri outlined the project’s objectives and the need for collaboration.

Ololade Auwal, who represented the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), detailed ongoing efforts to integrate PWDs into the PIA’s benefit-sharing mechanism.

The forum concluded with a commitment from all stakeholders to ensure equitable policies and resource allocation for PWDs in Nigeria’s petroleum industry.