The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has intensified calls for inclusive empowerment, urging that persons with disabilities (PWDs) be fully integrated into Federal Government economic support programmes to promote self-reliance and improve living conditions.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan Burki, made the appeal on Wednesday, 18th February,2026 during a working visit by NCPWD management to the office of the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programmes (GEEP) under the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction in Abuja.
Burki noted that Nigeria has an estimated over 35 million persons with disabilities, describing the figure as a major social concern that demands deliberate policy action.
According to him, the Commission is exploring every opportunity that would enable members of the disability community to benefit from government interventions, designed to lift vulnerable citizens out of poverty.
He expressed optimism that a strong collaboration between the Commission and GEEP would help achieve one of NCPWD’s core objectives, improving the socio-economic wellbeing of persons with disabilities.
The NCPWD boss also appealed to the programme office to consult the Commission on matters affecting PWDs to avoid duplication and confusion, assuring that the agency would carry out due diligence in mobilising eligible beneficiaries to register for the scheme.
Earlier, the National Programme Manager of GEEP, Hamza Ibrahim Baba, commended the Commission for the visit and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive governance.
He explained that the initiative targets women, youths and vulnerable groups, aligning with the Renewed Hope agenda of the present administration.
Baba disclosed that the programme operates three major schemes , FarmerMoni, MarketMoni and TraderMoni, but noted that the currently available funding is for FarmerMoni beneficiaries engaged in agricultural activities.
He clarified that the support is not a grant but a zero-interest loan repayable within one year, with a three-month moratorium period. Beneficiaries are to participate through cooperative groups to enhance monitoring and evaluation.
According to him, the scheme covers all 774 local government areas nationwide, and eligible persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply online for consideration.
The meeting ended with both agencies pledging sustained collaboration to strengthen inclusivity and improve economic opportunities for persons with disabilities across Nigeria.
