The Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD) has called on the Federal and state governments to fully implement the Disability Law to reduce discrimination against Persons With Disabilities (PWDs).
This was contained in a statement signed by the Jigawa State Chairman of the association, Hon. Adamu Sha’aibu.
He noted that the International Day for Persons With Disabilities, marked annually on December 3, promotes the rights and well-being of PWDs and raises awareness on the challenges they face globally.
According to him, the 2025 theme, “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress,” highlights the need for greater inclusion, participation, and leadership of PWDs, as well as addressing barriers such as poverty, limited opportunities, and social exclusion.
Hon. Sha’aibu said full enforcement of the Disability Law in Nigeria would help close discrimination gaps.
He commended Jigawa State for its progress in disability-friendly policies since 2007, and appreciated the current administration under Governor Umar Namadi for recent interventions, including: Increasing social security allowances from N7,000 to N10,000 and expanding beneficiaries from 150 to 200 per local government
Others are: recruiting teachers with disabilities, enhancing the disability fund and including PWDs in the state’s basic healthcare support programme
He stressed the need for stakeholders to continue promoting an inclusive society and urged the government to strengthen enforcement of the Disability Law, improve access to public buildings, ensure inclusive budgeting, and expand empowerment programmes.
Hon. Sha’aibu also acknowledged the support of development partners, CSOs, CBOs, security agencies, and the media.
He encouraged PWDs across the state to participate actively in all sectors, reaffirming the principle: “Nothing About Us, Without Us.”
JONAPWD comprises various disability clusters, including physical, hearing, and visual impairments, persons with albinism, those affected by leprosy, spinal cord injuries and intellectual disabilities.