With over 25 million persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria, Sokoto State’s disabled population faces systemic barriers and marginalization. Despite legislative efforts and initial support from the state government, progress has stalled, leaving the disabled community in a state of uncertainty. This has led to growing calls for a disability-led government initiative for inclusivity.
The Joint National Association of Persons with Disability (JONAPWD) in Sokoto State is urging the state’s House of Assembly to restructure and fund the National Commission for Persons with Disability (NCPWD) at the state level. This commission, mandated by the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act signed into law by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2019, aims to promote the rights and welfare of PWDs in Nigeria.
How it started
Mu’azu Habibu, Chairman of JONAPWD in Sokoto who spoke to ASHENEWS detailed the efforts to establish the commission at the state level. “Significant movements have been initiated to ensure the full implementation and funding of the commission. We’ve engaged with the State House of Assembly, commissioners, and relevant ministries to advance this cause.
“If this commission becomes a reality, we believe the challenges faced by people with special needs in Sokoto State will be greatly reduced, ensuring inclusivity in education, health, employment, and other sectors as outlined in the Act,” Habibu added.
During the ninth assembly, Barrister Maidawa Kajiji, former member representing Shagari constituency, first presented the motion to establish the commission at the state level.
The motion passed all readings and was signed into law by the previous administration of Rt. Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal. However, funding was never allocated to enable its full operation.
How it is going
Despite initial support, the progress of the commission has stalled under the current administration. “Upon the emergence of the present government, a review was carried out, revealing a need for restructuring and ensuring budgetary funding,” said Habibu.
Mahdi Umar Aliyu, Treasurer of JONAPWD Sokoto State, expressed frustration with the slow pace of establishing the commission. “Nobody can provide a clear progress status. There are speculations of a budget line, so if funds are allocated, what is impeding the commission’s operation?” he questioned.
Call for Disability-Led Government
JONAPWD Sokoto State advocates for the commission to be led primarily by individuals with disabilities. “We understand our needs and struggles best. Having PWDs in leadership positions ensures our voices are heard and our concerns prioritized,” stated Aliyu.
Habibu emphasized, “The commission was established to serve people with disabilities. It only makes sense that those directly affected by its decisions lead it. This ensures our interests remain at the forefront.”
Recognized efforts of the present government
Despite setbacks, the current administration has made notable efforts. The allowance for the PWDs increased from N650 to N10,000, significantly enhancing their financial well-being. The governor also provided a vehicle for coalition members, facilitating their mobility.
“This was one of his campaign promises, and he fulfilled it. The vehicle, worth over N60 million, greatly assists our movement,” said Sa’idu Bello Achida, PRO of JONAPWD Sokoto State.
Stakeholders’ Push
Advocates are urging the State House of Assembly to allocate resources and implement essential reforms. At the World Disability Day event, Dr. Bello Gidadawa of the Jama’a Community Development Initiative recommended establishing a dedicated budget line for the commission and providing modern office accommodations.
“Persons with disabilities feel sidelined. The only way to balance this is by including them fully into government,” Gidadawa emphasized.
The Future of the Commission
Aliyu noted that the national-level NCPWD struggles with implementation and funding, which affects the state chapter’s success. Despite this, Habibu remains confident.
“Even though every progress concerning the commission is halted for now. However, there is a good omen that what we are fighting for will be granted. This is because the Governor has carried us along since his campaign. We are optimistic that this commission will become a reality, and we shall run our own affairs, God willing.”
Gidadawa added, “We expect all recommendations, especially the educational budget line, to be provided. In no time, the law will be reviewed and amended, allowing us to manage our affairs.”
As stakeholders continue to push for an inclusive government through the proper establishment of the NCPWD Sokoto State chapter, the future of this commission lies in the hands of the incumbent government.
It is expected to uphold its responsibilities, ensuring the constitutional provision is maintained and the commission is established for the growth and development of all, regardless of abilities.
