Federal Government has launched the Disabilities Advancement and Development Initiative, DADI, a nationwide programme aimed at empowering thousands of persons living with disabilities. The initiative was unveiled in Kaduna as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on inclusivity, economic independence, and equal opportunities. The government highlighted the importance of expanding social investment, economic growth, and national development through disability-focused programmes.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Issa, recalled that President Tinubu had earlier launched the Beyond Disability Project on July 22, 2025. He described that effort as a major step toward breaking barriers, eliminating stereotypes, and creating sustainable pathways for persons with disabilities. He said, “The president is committed to ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of condition, has access to opportunities that support growth, dignity, and economic participation.”
Hon. Issa appreciated President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and commended Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani for his strong support in driving disability-focused policies. He explained that Kaduna was selected for the national launch because the state has consistently invested in the welfare and empowerment of persons with disabilities. He also praised the appointment of Mr. Steve Rodstick Ezeh as National Coordinator of the Beyond Disability Project. According to him, Ezeh is a visionary leader ready to drive meaningful change.
In an interview, the National Coordinator said the DADI programme is designed to support talent recovery, innovation, and self-reliance. He explained that the creative industry will play a major role in the programme, describing it as second only to agriculture in employment capacity. He said the initiative will nurture skills, promote entrepreneurship, and equip beneficiaries to become ambassadors of inclusion in their communities.
Also speaking, Malam Shamsudeen Abdullahi, Special Assistant to Governor Uba Sani, thanked the presidency for choosing Kaduna as host state. He acknowledged the state government’s interventions that have strengthened welfare and empowerment systems for persons with disabilities.
DADI will offer training, entrepreneurship support, and job placement opportunities across technology, agriculture, fashion, arts, crafts, and creative media. The programme aims to create an enabling environment where persons with disabilities can contribute fully to national growth.
The launch event featured exhibitions and performances showcasing music, dance, artwork, and crafts from persons with disabilities. Government officials, disability advocates, civil society organisations, and residents attended the ceremony.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to expanding accessibility and scaling up empowerment programmes. Stakeholders called for stronger collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector to secure long-term success. As implementation begins in Kaduna and moves to other states, many participants expressed confidence that DADI will dismantle long-standing barriers and help persons with disabilities reach their full potential, further strengthening the Renewed Hope Agenda.
