The European Union (EU) has urged Nigeria's Federal Government to prioritize the implementation of the National Disability Act, which was designed to promote inclusion and provide critical support for the over 35 million Nigerians living with disabilities.
This appeal was made during a national dialogue in Abuja marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The event, themed “Transformative Solutions to Disability-Inclusive Development in Nigeria,” was hosted by the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) and the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, with support from the EU's Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC).
Speaking on behalf of the EU delegation, Ruben Alba Aguilera, Head of Governance, Security, and Migration at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, emphasized the systemic challenges faced by persons with disabilities.
“Despite the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, people with disabilities are often excluded from development initiatives. This exclusion perpetuates cycles of violence, poverty, poor health outcomes, and limited access to education and employment,” Aguilera stated.
He highlighted the alarming statistic that 90% of Nigerians with disabilities live below the poverty line and stressed the urgent need for transformative action.
While commending Nigeria for enacting the Disability Rights Law and creating the NCPWD, Aguilera stressed that legislation alone is insufficient without proper funding and enforcement mechanisms.
Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, acknowledged the resource constraints hampering progress. “The law mandates education, welfare, and other provisions for persons with disabilities, but funding remains grossly inadequate,” Yilwatda noted, calling for increased budget allocations.
Ayuba Gufwan, Executive Secretary of the NCPWD, called for greater accountability and leadership in driving disability inclusion. “Today is a time for reflection and planning. We need to chart a clear path toward a truly inclusive society,” he said.
Abba Isa, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, stressed the importance of partnerships among policymakers, civil society organisations, and development partners to ensure sustainable progress.
The EU reaffirmed its commitment to advancing disability rights in Nigeria through its disability-inclusive international partnerships. Aguilera concluded, “We must work collectively to eliminate societal barriers and foster an environment where every Nigerian, regardless of ability, can thrive.”
The dialogue underscored the urgency of implementing the National Disability Act and integrating the needs of persons with disabilities into all aspects of development planning and programming.
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