The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, has lauded the Federal University of Lafia (FULafia) for its trailblazing commitment to inclusive education and empowerment of students with disabilities.
Gufwan described the university’s policies as “a remarkable standard for higher inclusive education in Nigeria,” adding that its bold initiatives have not only reduced barriers for students with special needs but also created opportunities for them to thrive academically.
He praised the Vice Chancellor and the management team of the institution for instituting disability-friendly policies that reflect compassion, equity, and innovation. Gufwan highlighted five outstanding interventions that earned the institution national recognition:
75% subsidy on fees and charges – a measure that has eased the financial burden for students with disabilities, special admission quota of 2% – ensuring dedicated access for candidates with special needs, establishment of the Center for Disability Studies – fostering research, training, and advocacy on disability inclusion, accessible hostel allocations – providing safe and dignified accommodation tailored to students with special needs and regular engagement with students with disabilities – guaranteeing that their voices are heard and integrated into the university’s development agenda.
“These visionary steps not only align with the National Policy on Inclusive Education (2024 Revised) but also serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for other institutions across the country,” Gufwan said.
The NCPWD boss further called on other universities to emulate FULafia’s model, while urging the Vice Chancellor to champion inclusive education across the Nigerian university system as an ambassador for disability inclusion.
He reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to deepen collaboration with FULafia in order to expand sustainable pathways for persons with disabilities to succeed.
