The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has concluded a two-day intensive intervention at the NAFOWA Special Needs School, Nigerian Air Force Base, Airport Road, Abuja.
At the end of the two – day intervention program, the Commission empowered the Children with Special Needs with assistive devices to aid them in their educational development.
The intervention involved assessment, prescription, fitting, and the donation of assistive devices to pupils with disabilities.
Describing assistive devices as critical tools of empowerment, the Commission stated that the devices improve communication, enhance mobility, support independent living, and remove barriers to quality education and full participation in society.
According to the Commission, the intervention aligns with the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, and NCPWD’s commitment to advancing inclusive education in Nigeria.
Representing the Commission, Dr. Kehinde Ogunbiyitan, Head of the Education Unit, reaffirmed the Commission’s mandate to promote the rights, inclusion, and dignity of persons with disabilities nationwide.
He said:
“Today’s event is about more than the donation of assistive devices. It is about creating opportunities and ensuring that every child, regardless of disability, has the chance to learn, grow, and achieve their full potential.”
Dr. Ogunbiyitan added, “Inclusion is not an act of charity — it is a matter of rights, equity, and justice. Every child deserves the opportunity to participate, succeed, and contribute meaningfully to society.”
The Commission further emphasized that achieving disability inclusion requires collaboration among government, development partners, civil society, the private sector, and communities.
Mrs. Aisha Ramallan, Vice President, NAFOWA, applauded the Commission for its unwavering support to the school.
She noted that the NAFOWA Special Needs School, under the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association, provides specialized education, therapy, and support services for children with disabilities in an inclusive learning environment.
Dr. Ismail Idris, Head of Assistive Devices and Technology Unit in the Commission, said education is a right, not a privilege. His words. “When we remove physical and learning barriers through assistive technology, we unlock the full potential of these children. NCPWD will continue to partner with institutions like NAFOWA to make schools truly inclusive.”
He commended the teachers, therapists, caregivers, and parents for their dedication, noting that “your efforts continue to transform lives and create opportunities for these children.”
Mrs. Semble Olanrewaju, School Supervisor/NAFOWA National Head of Programs, expressed gratitude on behalf of the school. She said,
“It is with great pleasure that we received these assistive devices. NAFOWA will continue to provide adequate support to ensure a conducive and enabling environment where pupils can achieve their academic goals and reach their full potential, regardless of disability.”
The Head Teacher, Mrs. Grace Odeleye, also commending the Commission, appreciated the empowerment gesture from the Commission, stating that the donation will help address the challenge of inadequate assistive devices for the children.
Earlier on Day 1, the Commission’s team of physiotherapists led by Dr. Ismail Idris and Dr. Aisha Ali, Head of Health and Rehabilitation, conducted assessments.
They identified conditions including Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Intellectual Disability, Autism, and Hearing Impairment, and prescribed devices tailored to each child’s individual needs.
On behalf of the Executive Secretary and Management of NCPWD, the Commission reaffirmed its commitment to working with partners like NAFOWA to expand access to quality education, assistive technology, and opportunities for persons with disabilities across Nigeria in line with its commitment to build a nation where no child is left behind and where inclusion becomes the norm.
Signed: Ishaku Kigbu (anipr)
Media and Publicity Unit
National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD)
16th July, 2026
