NCPWD Calls For Collective Effort To Break Chains Of Exclusion For Persons With Disabilities

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The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan has called for a collective effort to break the chains of exclusion for persons with disabilities in Nigeria. He made this call during the 65th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association, holding at the International Conference Centre in Enugu.

Gufwan emphasized that inclusion is not just a moral imperative but a fundamental human right since persons with disabilities face significant barriers in accessing education, employment, healthcare, and justice.

He highlighted the importance of implementing the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018, particularly sections 1, 3, and 29, which guarantees equal rights, access to public premises, and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.

The NCPWD Executive Secretary noted that breaking the chains of exclusion requires a multifaceted approach to address physical, social, economic, and attitudinal barriers. He called on stakeholders to promote accessibility, challenge stereotypes and stigma, and advocate for inclusive policies and laws that support the rights of persons with disabilities.

Gufwan emphasized that persons with disabilities have unique perspectives, skills, and experiences that can enrich communities and workplaces and that recognizing their value is crucial to building a more inclusive society.

Key highlights of his submission include stating that approximately 35.5 million people live with disabilities in Nigeria, requiring accessible materials and services.

He added that persons with disabilities face significant barriers in accessing education, employment, healthcare, and justice.

According to him, Sections 1, 3, and 29 of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018 guarantee equal rights, access to public premises, and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.

His words: “Breaking the chains of exclusion requires a collective effort and a commitment to creating a more inclusive society. We must recognize that disability is not inability and that persons with disabilities have unique perspectives, skills, and experiences that can enrich our communities and workplaces.”

He stated further that the NCPWD remains committed to working with stakeholders to promote the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.

Signed

Kigbu Ishaku (anipr)
Head, Media & Publicity,
National Commission for Persons with Disabilities