On August 6, 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Chief Ayuba Gufwan as the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD).
Gufwan, a seasoned lawyer and disability advocate with over three decades of experience, has since set the stage for a transformative era for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria.
Upon assuming office, Gufwan engaged with the Directors and Heads of Units of the Commission, gathering insights on ongoing projects and existing achievements. His commitment to fostering inclusivity extends through renewed partnerships with International Development Organizations, including Rolac, CBM, and Leprosy Mission Nigeria. These collaborations underscore Gufwan’s dedication to maximizing the impact of the 2018 Disability Act, with a vision to ensure that the Act is enforced across the country.
At the core of Gufwan’s agenda is the drive to fulfill key mandates of the Disability Act. He advocates for PWDs to be given their due 5% of employment opportunities in the public and private sectors, improved access to inclusive education, dedicated scholarships, and enhanced medical support. Additionally, he stresses the urgency for accessible infrastructure, as the Act’s five-year moratorium period has now ended, requiring all facilities to comply with accessibility standards.
In a bid to foster employment for PWDs, Chief Gufwan visited the Civil Service Commission, making a strong case for equitable job opportunities. His advocacy also extends to the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), where he addressed the barriers blind individuals face during basic entrance exams, particularly in mathematics, as they seek higher education.
Recognizing the unique needs of disabled soldiers, Gufwan met with the Chief of Defense Staff, calling for increased welfare measures for those affected by warfare and terrorism. His proposals include providing artificial limbs and assistive devices to restore dignity and functionality to soldiers with disabilities.
Gufwan’s vision encompasses the financial well-being of PWDs as well, evidenced by his visit to the Salaries and Wages Commission. He advocated for better emoluments for PWDs, supporting the notion that fair compensation contributes to independence and financial security. This theme carried through to his engagement with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, where he highlighted the importance of increased budgetary allocation for PWDs, proposing an increase from 4 billion to 60 billion naira to fully fund necessary programs.
With security for PWDs as a priority, Gufwan also met with the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS). In light of recent tragic incidents involving PWDs, he emphasized the urgent need for collaborative security measures to protect this vulnerable group.
Chief Ayuba Gufwan’s proactive approach, reflected in his early weeks of service, speaks volumes about his commitment to creating a more inclusive society for PWDs. By addressing critical areas of employment, education, healthcare, and security, Gufwan is laying the groundwork for a future where PWDs are not only protected but are empowered to thrive in Nigeria.
Mbanefo JohnMichaels Ikechukwu
Head Press and Public Relations Unit, NCPWD
