By Lanre Oloyede
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, has declared that his office is open for collaborations from stakeholders for inputs on the implementation of the National Disability Act, 2018.
Hon. Abba Isa stated this Tuesday at an event marking the 5th Anniversary of the passage of the National Disability Law in Abuja.
The program with the theme: Beyond Moratorium: Setting Agenda towards effective implementation of the National Disability Law, was organized by Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) in collaboration with the office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Disability Matters and ROLAC/Idea International with funding from the European Union.
While giving his goodwill message, the Senior Presidential aide commended all Organizations of Persons With Disabilities (OPDs), donors, development partners, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and other stakeholders for their relentless advocacy, passion, resilience, and dedication to the cause of disability inclusion which culminated in the enactment of the National Disability Law and the establishment of the National Commission for Persons With Disabilities (NCPWD).
The SSAP noted that following the expiration of the five-year moratorium window, the next phase of advocacy has shifted to implementation of the National Disability Act.
He therefore called on partners and all stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society, and private sector partners, to join hands in ensuring the effective implementation of this law.
His speech reads below:
“Today marks a momentous occasion in our nation’s journey towards a more inclusive and equitable society as we gather to commemorate the 5th anniversary of the National Disability Law and witness the expiration of the moratorium for compliance, signaling the commencement of the implementation of this historic legislation.
“Two decades of unwavering activism and relentless advocacy have brought us to this pivotal juncture.The journey has been marked by the collective efforts of countless individuals, organizations, and stakeholders dedicated to championing the rights of persons with disabilities.
“Over the past twenty years, dedicated individuals, organizations, and advocates tirelessly worked towards a vision where the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities are not just acknowledged but protected.
“These years of relentless efforts and perseverance eventually culminated in the enactment of the National Disability Law and the establishment of the National Commission for Persons With Disabilities (NCPWD) which stands as a testament to our commitment to fostering an inclusive society.
“For this milestone of achievements, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Organizations of Persons With Disabilities (OPDs), whose relentless advocacy has been the backbone of this transformative journey. Your passion, resilience, and dedication have not only shaped policies but have also elevated the discourse around disability rights in our nation.
“I also express deep appreciation to our donors and development partners who have stood by us in this journey. Your support, both financial and strategic, has been instrumental in turning aspirations into concrete actions. Together, we have made significant strides, but there is more work to be done.
“However, our work is far from over. Today, as we enter a crucial phase in our inclusion advocacy efforts – the implementation of the National Disability Act, I call upon all stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society, and private sector partners, to join hands in ensuring the effective implementation of this law. Collaboration is key to overcoming the challenges that lie ahead, and together, we can create a more accessible and inclusive environment for all.
“As we stand on the threshold of this new phase, let me assure you all that the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed and steadfast in its dedication to championing the rights of persons with disabilities, and together, we will build a nation where diversity is not just embraced but celebrated.
*Upon assumption of office, Mr President mandated me to proactively create avenues of opportunity for inclusion of PWDs requirements and perspectives in the policies and programmes of all Ministries, departments and agencies of
the Federal Government and also to work closely with subnational authorities to build a national consensus on PWD
friendly policies and environmental conditions.
“This we have started to do and have started getting positive responses in this regard from institutions and organized we have laiased with.
“In the last two months, we have held series of strategic partnership meetings with MDAs, CSOs, Development Partners, Organizations of Persons With Disabilities, including sub-national government with the goal of ensuring disability inclusion in their policies, plans and programmes.
“We have initiated awareness campaigns, collaborated with relevant stakeholders, and begun assessing policies to enhance the inclusion of persons with disabilities
“As a result of our engagements with these organizations, we have been able to draw up a detailed actionable Plan of Action to be implemented in stages in 2024 across the 36 States of the federation. This Plan of Action contains well planned and structured implementable programmes that will have direct impact in the lives of PWDs in Nigeria.
“Going forward in 2024, my office promises greater drive for Disability inclusion and opportunities in the coming year. We will delve into the arena, push the frontiers and leave no stone unturned to ensure the thriving of inclusive society in Nigeria. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given the mandate and marching order and more than ever, he is determined to ensure no one is left behind in his renewed hope agenda
“My office shall, in partnership with NCPWD, be launching the Joint Presidential Task Team to oversee thorough implementation of the National Disability Act.
“As we mark the expiration of the transition window for compliance and the commencement of the law’s implementation, I call upon all stakeholders to foster collaboration and partnership. The road ahead may present challenges, but it is through unity that we can overcome them. Let us work together to implement the National Disability Law effectively, ensuring that it becomes a cornerstone for a more inclusive society.
“I assure you that better days are ahead. So, let us forge ahead, hand in hand, creating a future where every citizen, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute meaningfully to our great nation.
“Thank you, and let us move forward together towards a more inclusive future.”
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