The Federal Government of Nigeria in order to promoting inclusivity and safeguard the rights of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) has initiated the establishment of a committee aimed at elevating awareness about PWD rights.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced the directive during a meeting with the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, James Lalu, in Abuja. The committee will collaborate closely with the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities to develop a comprehensive framework for advancing awareness about the rights and privileges entitled to individuals with disabilities.
Expressing the government’s commitment, Minister Idris pledged substantial resources from the ministry to support the commission’s mission of upholding the dignity of PWDs and eradicating discrimination against them. He underscored President Bola Tinubu’s dedication to social inclusion and promised advocacy for the adoption of Disability laws by state governments.
“We will set up a committee that is going to work closely with you to look at your specific needs so that we can help ensure that your aims and objectives are achieved,” Minister Idris affirmed.
Highlighting the invaluable contributions of the 35 million people with disabilities to Nigeria’s National Values Charter implementation, Minister Idris stated the need for concerted efforts to empower and include PWDs in all aspects of society.
Dr. James Lalu, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, welcomed the collaboration with the Ministry, stressing the importance of equal access to services for PWDs and their potential for economic advancement.