The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has assured members of the deafblind community of full inclusion and support, following an official courtesy visit by the Deafblind Cluster to the Commission’s Headquarters in Abuja.
The delegation, led by Lionheart Ability Leaders International Foundation, met with the Commission to draw attention to the unique challenges faced by persons who are deafblind and to advocate for their formal recognition within Nigeria’s disability ecosystem.
While addressing the officials, leader of the delegation, Mr. Okelola Solomon, outlined urgent areas requiring intervention, including rehabilitation initiatives, official representation, expanded access to education and accessible facilities, as well as a review of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act to explicitly recognize persons who are deafblind.
Solomon disclosed that the Foundation, which has worked for over five years to identify and support this group, has so far recorded 96 individuals nationwide. However, only four are employed and ten have access to formal education, with the majority facing severe barriers to learning and communication. He also revealed that two members had died from untreated illnesses due to lack of awareness and stigma within their households.
Responding, the Executive Secretary of the NCPWD, Hon. Yakubu Gufwan commended the Foundation’s efforts and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to a disability-inclusive in Nigeria. “The number one goal of the Commission is to include all disability clusters, ensuring that no one is left behind,” he said.
He highlighted ongoing efforts to build a comprehensive national disability database, increase access to assistive devices, and enhance interventions that cater to diverse disability needs. He also praised the resilience of the deafblind community, stressing that “there is indeed ability in disability.”
The Commission formally welcomed the Deafblind Cluster into the national disability community and congratulated Mr. Solomon and his team for their advocacy.
