Abuja: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has inaugurated a disability inclusion Technical Working Group for the implementation of the Disability Rights Act 2018.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the consultative meeting and inauguration was organised by NHRC with support from Sightsavers International. The Executive Secretary of NHRC, Dr. Tony Ojukwu (SAN), stated that it was a collective effort and commitment to advancing disability inclusion in respective organisations and policies. Ojukwu was represented by Mr. Harry Obe, the Head of the Economic and Socio-Cultural Rights Department of the commission.
He highlighted that the NHRC, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, and other stakeholders, with support from Sightsavers, were instrumental in pushing for the signing and ratification of the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (ADP). Ojukwu emphasized that the event reflected a commitment towards ensuring the implementation of the ADP through actionable policies and programmes.
The establishment of a Technical Working Group was one of the resolutions at a workshop organised by NHRC with support from Sightsavers in October 2024. He stated that the establishment of this Technical Working Group aligns with Articles 33 and 34 of the African Disability Protocol to build capacities, ensure full participation, and designate mechanisms to monitor the implementation of the Protocol.
The Disability Inclusion Technical Working Group is a multi-stakeholder entity, with members from various organisations dedicated to implementing the ADP and related legislation. This initiative aims to strengthen coordination, mainstreaming, and technical support for inclusive policies, programmes, and practices. It is a significant step towards creating inclusive environments where persons with disabilities can realise their potential, aligning with the NHRC’s mission to promote and protect human rights in Nigeria.
Joy Tarbo, Communication Officer for Sightsavers, representing the Country Director, Prof. Joy Shuaibu, remarked that the inauguration was a step forward. She stressed that behind every law and policy are individuals with dreams and the right to live with dignity and equality. Tarbo expressed hope that these commitments would be reflected in the lived realities of people with disabilities across Nigeria.
Ayuba Gutwan, Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, noted the necessity of inclusion in areas such as access to work, accessibility compliance, advocacy, and sensitisation. He advocated for a multi-pronged action and strategy to impact the administration and enforcement of the rights of persons with disabilities in Nigeria. He also highlighted the need for stakeholders to decide on the domestication of the protocol to avoid duplicity.
Ms. Winifred Achu from the European Union pointed out issues with access to bank services for persons with disabilities. She noted that while Nigeria has relevant laws, awareness is lacking, and suggested increased awareness at all levels. She pledged the European Union’s support in implementing and actualising the Disabilities Act and the protocol.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the members of the working group encompass various ministries, agencies, and many civil society organisations.