The National Orientation Agency (NOA) and the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) have moved to deepen collaboration in advancing disability inclusion across Nigeria, with both institutions agreed to set up a joint committee to spearhead nationwide awareness and boost implementation of the Disability Act.
During a courtesy visit to the NOA headquarters, Director General Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to promoting the rights and participation of persons with disabilities (PWDs). He stressed that the lack of perfect statistical data must never delay decisive action, noting that accessible building designs, appropriate parking spaces and inclusive public facilities should already be standard practice under existing laws.
Issa-Onilu said the nation must shift from charity-driven approaches to empowerment-focused strategies that equip PWDs with the skills, knowledge and confidence to claim their rights. He warned against tokenism and called for systems that guarantee accessibility, dignity and full societal participation for all citizens.
Highlighting NOA’s extensive national reach through media platforms, community structures and grassroots engagement he expressed confidence that the Agency is well positioned to drive sustained sensitisation on disability rights.
Responding, the Executive Secretary of the NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, commended the NOA’s longstanding support and reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to deepen cooperation. He outlined major challenges affecting Nigeria’s disability community, including unreliable data, underfunding, poor staff remuneration, weak enforcement of accessibility standards and limited employment opportunities.
Gufwan noted disparities in available figures, with estimates suggesting Nigeria may have between 35.5 and 38 million persons with disabilities far above the outdated census figure of 2.6 million. Citing South Korea’s strong institutional support systems, he urged Nigeria to adopt similar frameworks that ensure no PWD is left behind.
He further emphasised that disability inclusion must involve everyone committed to advancing the rights and welfare of PWDs, not only those living with disabilities.
Both organisations agreed on the urgency of stronger public sensitisation, practical interventions and systemic reforms to strengthen the implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018.
A joint NOA–NCPWD committee will be inaugurated to map out collaborative initiatives aimed at expanding awareness, improving accessibility nationwide and enhancing the full inclusion of persons with disabilities in national life.
