EU seeks effective implementation of Nigeria’s disability act

The European Union (EU) has implored federal government ministries and agencies to intensify efforts in implementing the provisions of the National Disability Act.

The EU emphasised that while the act outlines essential policies to improve the lives of persons with disabilities (PWDs), meaningful progress will be unattainable without effective implementation.

The appeal was made at a national dialogue held in Abuja to mark this year’s International Day for PWDs.

The event, themed “Transformative Solutions to Disability-inclusive Development in Nigeria,” was organised by the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) and the federal ministry of humanitarian affairs and poverty alleviation, with support from the EU’s Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme, implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance.

Guartier Mignot, who represented the EU ambassador-designate, expressed concern over the exclusion of PWDs in development planning.

”PWDs are being left behind in development. Although inclusion is affirmed in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, many interventions still fail to include people with disabilities,” he said.

”Societal barriers continue to place them at increased risk of violence, poverty, poorer health outcomes and limited access to education and employment opportunities.

”This is not inevitable, and we must be deliberate about ensuring disability inclusion.”

Ayuba Gufwan, NCPWD’s executive secretary, stressed the need for greater efforts towards disability inclusion in all sectors.

Mohammed Isa, the senior special adviser to President Tinubu on special needs and equal opportunities, also called for collaboration between policymakers, civil society organisations, and development partners to promote an inclusive society for PWDs.