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As the National President of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), I extend my warm greetings to all persons with disabilities and stakeholders on this day of commemorating the 2024 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). By practice, this day serves as an opportunity to reflect on our progress, acknowledge the challenges we continue to face, and renew our commitment to creating a society that is inclusive, equitable, and accessible for all.
The Nigerian disability movement has come a long way in recent years, driven by the tireless collective advocacies and efforts of organizations under the umbrella Organisation of Persons with Disabilities – JONAPWD.
Over the years, we have witnessed the gradual dismantling of barriers that once kept persons with disabilities marginalized and excluded from mainstream society. From the adoption of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018 to the establishment of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, the legal framework for inclusion has evolved significantly. These milestones stand as testaments to the power of collective advocacy, perseverance, and the growing recognition of the rights of persons with disabilities at the national, state and local levels.
However, as we celebrate these achievements, we must also acknowledge that the journey is far from complete. We are still faced with numerous challenges, particularly in the implementation of policies and laws designed to protect the disability rights, particularly those of underrepresented groups. It is clear that while progress has been made, we must be more intentional in fostering partnerships that genuinely advance the rights of persons with disabilities across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). We need sustained collaborations with governmental, non-governmental, and private sector partners who share in our vision of an inclusive Nigeria. These partnerships must be grounded in a shared commitment to long-term solutions which are rooted in respect for consultations with persons with disabilities who are the right holders with invaluable lived experiences and the access to lead. Partnerships, where the focus is not just on funding or awareness, but on concrete, measurable outcomes that improve the lives of persons with disabilities in every corner of our country.
Since every year’s IDPD commemoration also coincides with the 16 Days of Activism campaign against gender-based violence, it is crucial to emphasize the heightened vulnerability of women and children with disabilities, who often face multiple layers of discrimination and abuse. The intersection of disability and gender makes them particularly susceptible to human rights violations, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that society is more responsive to the needs of these individuals, and that they are provided with adequate protection, support, and empowerment. The fight for disability rights must also be a fight for the rights of women and children, ensuring that they are not left behind in the pursuit of justice, dignity, and equality.
As we look to the future, JONAPWD welcomes partnerships in key thematic sectors such as climate change, technology, agriculture, education, and employment, among others. It is imperative that persons with disabilities are meaningfully included in these sectors, not as an afterthought, but as active leaders and participants in shaping the policies and programs that directly affect their lives. Whether it is in addressing the impact of climate change, improving access to quality education, or ensuring employment opportunities, we must ensure that the needs of persons with disabilities are prioritized, and that they are given the resources and opportunities to thrive.
In closing, let us use this day to profoundly appreciate stakeholders on the progress we have made, but more importantly, to renew our commitment to the work ahead. The journey towards the full inclusion for persons with disabilities in Nigeria requires us all to be more intentional, strategic, and collaborative.
Together, we can create a society that recognizes the inherent dignity and rights of every person, regardless of their ability.
Thank you.
Abdullahi Usman Aliyu
National President,Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD)