The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), in collaboration with Sightsavers, convened a three-day planning retreat aimed at developing an implementation plan for existing operational policies, regulations, guidelines, and frameworks.
The retreat, held today, 25th November, 2024 in Karu Nasarawa State, also prioritized the development of seven additional operational policies to enhance the commission’s impact.
Declaring the event open, the Executive Secretary, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Chief Ayuba Gufwan, expressed deep appreciation to development partners for their support and commitments. He urged participants to take full advantage of the retreat to refocus and restrategize efforts toward achieving the commission’s mandate.
“This retreat presents an opportunity to streamline our implementation strategies, ensuring that our policies are effectively translated into action” he emphasized.
He further highlighted the importance of the timing of his appointment, coinciding with the end of the moratorium period, which now paves the way for full compliance and enforcement of disability laws and policies.
Addressing the challenges faced by the disability rights movement, Chief Gufwan lamented the lack of robust structures among some advocacy groups, which he noted undermines their credibility and effectiveness.
However, he expressed optimism about the progress being made, particularly in the National Assembly, where increasing efforts are underway to upgrade and align their structures with the principles of inclusivity and accessibility.
The retreat served as a platform for stakeholders to assess progress, identify gaps, and chart a forward-thinking course for promoting the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities across Nigeria.
Nevertheless, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities is dedicated to advancing the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities in Nigeria through policy development, enforcement, and strategic collaboration with key stakeholders.
Signed
Mbanefo JohnMichaels, I
Head Information and Public Relations Unit, NCPWD
