The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, has applauded the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lawyers with Disabilities Forum for their steadfast commitment for promoting the rule of law and defending the rights of persons with disabilities.
This was made known during a courtesy visit by members of the Forum to the Commission’s Headquarters in Abuja. Gufwan praised their resilience and efforts in advancing legal advocacy for inclusion. He noted that persons with disabilities possess the intellectual capacity and skills to make significant contributions to national development.
He emphasized the need to strengthen and possibly amend the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018 to reflect current realities and better serve the needs of persons with disabilities across the 36 states. While acknowledging states that have enacted disability laws, he expressed concern over weak implementation and inadequate funding.
Gufwan called on development partners, government agencies, and civil society organizations to increase institutional and financial support to deepen disability inclusion, particularly at the grassroots level.
Speaking on behalf of the Forum, Barrister Sani Moyi reaffirmed their alignment with the Commission’s mandate, pledging continued collaboration to ensure effective implementation of the Disability Act. He also appealed for support to enable lawyers with disabilities to participate in the forthcoming NBA Annual National Conference.
In his remarks, Barrister Ikem Uchegbulam, Director of Compliance and Enforcement at NCPWD, stressed the importance of full compliance with the Disability Act to build a fair and inclusive society.
The NCPWD reiterated its commitment to working closely with stakeholders to uphold the rights, dignity, and full participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of national life.
