ActionAid Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the rights, dignity, and full inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) as the world marks the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD).
Dr Andrew Mamedu, Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, said in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja that there is an urgent need for policies and actions that ensure inclusion, equity, and accessibility for all Nigerians, regardless of ability.
Mamedu noted that disability inclusion in Nigeria remains a significant challenge, with millions of citizens facing barriers to education, employment, healthcare, and social participation. Citing figures from the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), he said about 35.1 million Nigerians live with some form of disability. Civil society groups, such as the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), estimate the figure at about 29 million.
“These numbers reflect the reality that millions of Nigerians face invisible barriers, stigma, exclusion from education and work, limited access to healthcare, and systematic neglect. Too many remain marginalized in silence,” he said.
He emphasized that inclusion is not an act of charity but a matter of justice, dignity, and shared humanity, adding that the country must do more to value the potential and contributions of persons with disabilities.
Mamedu reaffirmed ActionAid Nigeria’s commitment to mainstreaming disability inclusion across its programmes, strengthening advocacy, improving visibility and data, and deepening partnerships with Disabled Persons’ Organizations (DPOs).
He urged governments to accelerate the implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, ensuring access to inclusive education, employment, social protection, and healthcare. He also called on the private sector, civil society, and communities to adopt inclusive practices and dismantle physical, social, and attitudinal barriers that hinder the participation of persons with disabilities.
Additionally, he encouraged citizens to challenge myths, prejudice, and discrimination, and to treat persons with disabilities as equal members of society with rights, value, and potential.
“As the world commemorates World Disability Day, ActionAid Nigeria stands ready to work with partners and policymakers to build a country where no one is left behind—where persons with disabilities are recognized, included, supported, and empowered to fully participate in national life,” he said.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated every December 3 to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development.
