By Mnena Iyorkegh, Abuja
The United Nations (UN) has underscored the urgent need to strengthen capacities for addressing disability issues in Nigeria.
This was highlighted during the Review and Validation of the Situation Analysis on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and a multi-stakeholder capacity-building workshop held in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, UNESCO Nigeria’s Head of Office, Mr. Diallo Abdourahamane, emphasized the importance of developing organizational structures, guidelines, and methodologies to promote disability inclusion.
He stressed on the need to amend the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, to align fully with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
According to Mr. Abdourahamane, critical gaps in the law include:
“Exclusion of private organizations from the 5% employment quota for persons with disabilities.
Lack of provisions for reasonable accommodations and assistive technologies in workplaces.
Absence of guarantees for digital accessibility.
Missing costed implementation plans”
“These issues must be addressed urgently through amendments developed in consultation with Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) and with the support of international cooperation,” he noted.
The UNESCO representative described the workshop as a pivotal step toward a more inclusive Nigeria.
“Today marks the beginning of a process to address these challenges comprehensively. This event serves as a platform to strengthen partnerships, foster dialogue, and co-create solutions for advancing disability inclusion. Let us seize this opportunity to share ideas and shape a future where all individuals, regardless of ability, can thrive. The outcomes of this event will have lasting impacts on policies, programs, and practices affecting millions of lives. Together, we can ensure that no one is left behind,” he stated.
Mr. Abdourahamane also called on the Nigerian government to address the significant disability data gap, noting that the absence of administrative data and the inadequate inclusion of disability metrics in national surveys hinder informed decision-making.
“The government must implement a detailed action plan for the Nigeria Inclusive Data Charter with specific annual targets, indicators, and budget allocations. Similarly, the Revised National Policy on Inclusive Education (2023) requires a costed implementation plan to ensure equitable access to quality education for all,” he added.
Findings and the Way Forward, Dr. Toyin Aderemi, a consultant for the Situation Analysis and Capacity-Building Workshop, presented key findings.
She highlighted progress made since the passage of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, which has increased awareness of disability rights in Nigeria.
However, Dr. Aderemi noted gaps in coordination and the inclusion of marginalized groups, gender equality, and active participation of persons with disabilities in policymaking.
“Nigeria has made strides, but there is still much to be done to ensure that actions taken are impactful. Stakeholders must work collaboratively to close these gaps and ensure alignment with global best practices,” she said.
A Call for Strategic Advocacy and Action.
The event, organized by UNESCO in partnership with the UN Partnership on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNPRPD), aims to ensure the validated report becomes a critical tool for advocacy, policymaking, and strategic action toward an inclusive Nigeria.
