“A leader is a dealer in hope.” – Napoleon Bonaparte
On October 27–28, 2025, a new era of hope and transformation continued as the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), in partnership with the Chartered Institute of Strategic Management of Nigeria (#ISMN) and supported by the Trade Modernisation Project Limited (TMPL), proudly celebrated the induction of 36 young women and men with disabilities (one from each state of the federation )as Associate Members of #ISMN.
This milestone signals a turning point in Nigeria’s disability inclusion journey one that moves beyond advocacy into leadership reform. It affirms JONAPWD’s mission to build strategic thinkers, innovators, and reformers within the disability community who are equipped to lead change across all sectors of society.
The induction ceremony marks the fulfillment of commitments made during the 2024 Conference of Stakeholders on Disability Inclusion in Nigeria (#2024COSDIN).
At this landmark event, Trade Modernisation Project Limited (TMPL’s) pledged to advance the inclusion agenda by collaborating with the Chartered Institute of Strategic Management of Nigeria to open pathways for professional development among persons with disabilities.
Through this partnership, inclusion is being institutionalized not as a token gesture, but as a strategic investment in human capital. TMPL’s leadership in this initiative continues to demonstrate how private-sector partnerships can accelerate social reform and inclusive governance. Over October 27 and 28, 2025, the #ISMN hosted an intensive induction and leadership orientation program designed to inspire, equip, and empower participants. The 36 inductees representing every state in Nigeria, engaged in sessions on leadership, strategy, innovation, and ethics. Their induction as Associate Members of #ISMN formally recognizes them as emerging strategic leaders capable of influencing policy, driving development, and reimagining inclusion in governance and business.
Each participant’s story is one of resilience, potential, and purpose. Together, they embody JONAPWD’s vision of a future where persons with disabilities are not just beneficiaries of programs but drivers of strategic transformation.
JONAPWD extends heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Abdullahi Usman Aliyu, National President of JONAPWD, for his unwavering belief in youth-driven and inclusive leadership. His forward-thinking approach to integrating disability inclusion into professional development is shaping a new model of national leadership, one that reflects diversity, equity, and innovation.
We also express deep gratitude to Trade Modernisation Project Limited for fulfilling its COSDIN commitment by investing in this groundbreaking partnership. TMPL’s continued dedication to #DisabilityInclusion reinforces the truth that modernization is incomplete without inclusion.
For JONAPWD, this milestone is not an endpoint, it’s part of the foundation of a national reform agenda. By equipping young women and men with disabilities with professional credentials, networks, and leadership tools, JONAPWD is cultivating a generation of strategic leaders without limits. According to the National President “this initiative redefines what inclusion means in practice. it is about power, participation, and purpose. The 36 newly inducted leaders stand as living proof that Nigeria’s future will be stronger when every citizen, regardless of ability, is empowered to lead”.
The future is now and it is inclusive.
