Stakeholders have urged Nigerians to embrace a change in attitude and support inclusive policies that amplify the voices and rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
The appeal was made on Wednesday in Abuja during the 10th anniversary of the Voice of Disability Initiative (VDI), themed “10 Years of Impact: Her Rights, Her Voice, Her Future.”
Former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, praised VDI for its efforts over the past decade in championing disability rights, driving policy reforms, and empowering vulnerable groups across the country.
She emphasised the importance of disability inclusion in all spheres of life and urged Nigerians to give necessary support to help PWDs thrive.
“As a former First Lady, I initiated programmes to support women, PWDs, and youths through my NGOs, A-Aruere Reachout Foundation (AARF) and Women for Change.
“As we look forward to the future, let us continue to amplify the voices of PWDs.
“We can break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and ensure equal opportunities for the less privileged in our society,” she said.
She urged society to support women and girls with disabilities by offering them employment, skills training, and start-up capital for businesses.
Jonathan also called on Nigerians to support VDI’s mission, raise awareness about the challenges PWDs face, and learn sign language to build an inclusive society.
Catherine Edeh, Executive Director of VDI, said major challenges facing PWDs included inadequate funding and negative societal perceptions.
She shared her personal story, saying she became deaf at age nine and experienced stigma and discrimination from peers and even close friends.
“Losing my hearing doesn’t make me sick. After facing stigma and being sidelined, I decided to study law to advocate for the rights of PWDs.
“God has given me this platform to call on all Nigerians, whether or not they work in the disability space, to prioritise disability inclusion,” she said.
Edeh stressed the need to change the narrative about PWDs, adding that with the right support and connection, they could contribute meaningfully to national development.
Chairperson of the occasion, Ms. Ene Obi, acknowledged progress made through the enactment of the Disabilities Act and the establishment of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities.
However, she emphasised the need for implementation, especially in education, through scholarships, special schools, and protection against gender-based violence.
“To create equality, we must recognise diversity and break barriers that prevent equal enjoyment of rights,” Obi said.
Keynote speaker Prof. Wahab Egbewole, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, emphasised the need to strengthen institutions and strategies for disability inclusion, calling for a national attitudinal change.
Mr Chijoke Josiah, a VDI Board Member and parent of a child with a disability, urged parents to accept and support their children rather than hiding them out of shame.
“It’s not a crime to have a child with a disability. What matters most is acceptance. Every child has a unique quality that can shine when given the right support,” he said.
Mr Chike Uwaezuoke, Vice-Chairman of VDI’s Board of Trustees, lauded the organisation’s achievements and expressed hope that its advocacy and impact would soon extend beyond Nigeria to the wider region.
