By Nkechi Eze
The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Ayuba Gufwan, has applauded the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for organising a sensitisation workshop on digital citizenship aimed at promoting the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the nation’s digital ecosystem.
Speaking through the NCPWD Director of Social Integration, Mr. Lawrence Idemudia, Gufwan described the NCC’s initiative as a forward-looking step that aligns with both national and international commitments to inclusion, accessibility and sustainable development. He stated that the training workshop came at a crucial time and provides a vital opportunity to bridge the existing digital divide.
“As we gather here today, we are reminded of the transformative potential of information and communication technologies in advancing equality, inclusion, and independent living for persons with disabilities. The digital space, when made accessible, can eliminate barriers to education, employment, health, and civic participation,” the Executive Secretary said.
According to a statement signed by the Head of Media and Publicity of the NCPWD, Kigbu Ishaku, the sensitisation programme was held on Thursday, 17 July 2025, in Abuja with the theme ‘Empowering All Advancing Digital Citizenship and Inclusion for Persons with Disabilities’. The event provided a strategic platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas and build collective capacity for enhancing digital inclusion.
Gufwan urged participants, including policy makers, ICT professionals, civil society organisations, and persons with disabilities, to seize the opportunity to develop innovative solutions that promote inclusive digital participation across the country. He further assured that the NCPWD remains committed to collaborating with the NCC and other stakeholders to ensure that Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda is inclusive and empowering for all, especially people with disabilities.
He identified digital citizenship as an indispensable tool in ensuring access to information, improved communication, empowerment, digital education, and inclusive remote employment. He therefore stressed the importance of guaranteeing access and eliminating digital marginalisation.
During the workshop, participants also discussed key issues including online safety, privacy and ethical behaviour in digital spaces. A presentation by Barr. Ikem Onuegbunam focused on practical measures for closing the digital divide and eradicating stigma faced by persons with disabilities in the use of ICT.
The high point of the event was the presentation of braille books to the NCPWD by the NCC. The items were presented by the NCC’s Director of Digital Economy, Mrs. Olatokunboh Oleyele and received on behalf of the Commission by Mr. Lawrence Idemudia. Certificates of participation were later issued to all attendees in recognition of their involvement in the programme.
