Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, affirms that the 10th National Assembly is committed to prioritizing legislation on Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) for their inclusive participation in national affairs. Speaking during the International Day for PWDs in Abuja, Akpabio emphasized the global effort to embrace diversity and inclusion.
The 2023 commemoration, themed “Renewing Hope Together for Disability Inclusive Societies,” was organized by the National Commission for Persons Living with Disabilities (NCPWD) and received support from various organizations, including The Leprosy Mission Nigeria, Sight Savers, and UN Nigeria.
Akpabio, represented by Sen. Osita Ngwu, Senate Minority Whip, expressed the Senate’s commitment to actively engage in global dialogue for an inclusive society. He urged swift feedback on motions and bills concerning PWDs, assuring their prioritized consideration.
Dr. Bashir Dawodu, Chairman of the House Committee on Disability, echoed Akpabio’s commitment, emphasizing a review of disability laws in alignment with current trends, particularly concerning women and children.
Dr. Betta Edu, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, disclosed allocating ten percent of her ministry’s programs to PWDs, urging increased budgetary support for NCPWD. She emphasized the need to match rhetoric with funding to uplift over 35 million PWDs in Nigeria.
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NCPWD’s Executive Secretary, Mr. James Lalu, expressed gratitude for the National Assembly’s support, urging continued collaboration for the commission’s mandate. Various stakeholders, including the Government of Osun and the British High Commission, pledged ongoing support for NCPWD.
“In expressing our commitment, the Nigerian Senate stands firmly with the NCPWD. Our endorsement is a tangible pledge to actively engage in global dialogue on creating an inclusive society.
“Let’s embrace the opportunity to renew hope together. May Nigeria be recognised for its diversity and ability to ensure that every citizen, regardless of ability status, is valued and included.
“We know that laws are made, but we need to make laws to ensure that everybody’s interest is recognised and carried along.
“The 10th Assembly and both the Senate and House of Representatives are very open to expediting motions and bills concerning PWDs. This is something that we are passionate about.
“We expect to hear from you as quickly as possible. We would be in haste to make sure that those bills are given priority and considered in the 10th Assembly,” Akpabio said.
“So, in simple terms, if the president said clearly that 50 million persons will be pulled out of poverty, ten per cent out of the 50 million will be PWDs.
“The budget for NCPWD is too low. We must put our money where our mouth is. So on behalf of the over 35 million PWDs in Nigeria, we are pleading with the uncommon leadership of the National Assembly to please improve on the budget for NCPWD,” Edu pleaded.
In attendance, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, represented by Omolara Essan, reiterated the government’s commitment to collaboration and support for NCPWD and the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs.
