By Justina Auta
SightSavers Nigeria, an International NGO, has urged the government and other stakeholders to prioritise inclusion and investment in initiatives that empower Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
It’s Country Director, Dr Joy Shu’aibu, made the call in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja in commemoration of the International Day of Personswith Disabilities with the theme “Sustainable Development: Advancing the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.”
Shu’aibu noted that PWDs are the most marginalised groups, facing barriers to education, employment, healthcare and participation in public life.
She added that this year’s theme highlights the urgent need for disability-inclusive policies and practices to ensure no one is left behind in achieving the SDGs.
She said “sustainable development is impossible without inclusion. We must remove the physical, societal and systemic barriers that prevent personswith disabilities from reaching their full potential.
“At Sightsavers, we are committed to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities through empowerment, partnerships and community-driven initiatives.”
According to her, through the organisation’s numerous projects like the SABI-Woman project, hundreds of women, girls and youths with disabilities were empowered to overcome challenges and pursue their dreams.
She cited the success story of Hajara, an 18-year-old visually impaired student from Kano, who transformed her life with the support of Sightsavers and inspired others to harness their potential.
She said “Hajara’s story is a powerful reminder of what is possible when we invest in inclusive development.
“Women and girls with disabilities are among the most marginalised in our society, yet they have incredible potential to drive change when given the right opportunities.
“At Sightsavers, we are committed to ensuring that no one is left behind, and we are proud to see girls like Hajara thrive and inspire others.”
The country director, therefore, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to breaking barriers and building a more inclusive world.
SightSavers will be marking the Day of Persons with Disabilities with community and media engagements and school campaigns to raise awareness about disability rights and inclusion.
