—FG, partners push for inclusive development for 35.5m Nigerians with disability
[Olusegun Ogunkayode], Osogbo
Nigeria will host the 2025 National Disability Summit in Abuja from October 29 to 30, as part of fresh efforts to promote disability inclusion and strengthen inclusive governance across the country.
The summit, themed “Inclusive Nigeria: Empowering Persons with Disabilities for Sustainable Development,” is being organised by the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction and development partners.
The two-day event will draw participants from government agencies, civil society organisations, the private sector, development partners and Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs).
According to a Press Release, signed by the Head, Media and Publicity, NCPWD, Ishaku Kigbu, (anipr), discussions will focus on inclusive employment, entrepreneurship, digital accessibility, data-driven policymaking, and accessible infrastructure.
Statistically, Nigeria currently has an estimated 35.5 million persons with disabilities, but implementation of disability laws remains uneven. Although the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act was signed in 2018, only 23 states have domesticated it, while 15 states have functional agencies.
A major highlight of the summit will be the launch of the National Forum of Disability Commissions and Agencies (NAFDCA), a new platform designed to enhance coordination and improve policy implementation nationwide.
Speaking ahead of the event, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, described the summit as a call to collective action.
“The 2025 National Disability Summit is a call to action for all stakeholders to come together and address the challenges that hinder the full participation of persons with disabilities,” he said. “It is an opportunity to build a truly inclusive Nigeria where every citizen can thrive and contribute meaningfully.”
The event is being supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) Nigeria, the European Union (EU), the Government of Germany, the Government of Switzerland, and IDEA International.
Country Director of GIZ Nigeria, Dr. Markus Wagner, said the summit represents a vital step toward justice and opportunity for persons with disabilities. “This Summit is more than just a gathering. It is an essential step towards ensuring that persons with disabilities can actively participate in Nigeria’s development. Inclusion is not charity; it is justice and opportunity,” he said.
The summit will feature panel discussions, workshops, and exhibitions showcasing innovative technologies and initiatives promoting accessibility and empowerment.
The event will hold daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in Abuja.
