The National Orientation Agency has restated its strong commitment to promoting disability inclusion in Nigeria, with the Director General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, explaining that the country must not wait for perfect data before taking meaningful action. During a courtesy visit by the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, the DG noted that accessible facilities should be implemented proactively and in line with existing laws. He said inclusive building designs, dedicated parking spaces, and user-friendly public amenities are necessary steps that should not be delayed.
The DG also called for a shift from charity-based support to empowerment. He stressed that people with disabilities need the knowledge, skills and confidence to assert their rights and reach their full potential at both local and national levels. Issa-Onilu urged the removal of systemic barriers that limit the political and social participation of PWDs. He warned against token gestures, stating that Nigeria must build a society where accessibility, dignity and full participation are guaranteed for all.
Highlighting the Agency’s advantages, Issa-Onilu pointed to the NOA’s nationwide presence, media platforms and grassroots structures as important tools that can support awareness campaigns and community engagement on disability rights. He explained that these structures can help shift public attitudes and promote understanding across different communities.
Responding to the DG, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, expressed appreciation for the Agency’s support. He confirmed that the Commission is ready to deepen cooperation with the NOA to ensure full implementation of the Discrimination Against People with Disabilities Prohibition Act, 2018. He also highlighted long-standing challenges, such as unreliable population data, low funding, poor staff remuneration, incomplete enforcement of accessibility standards and limited employment opportunities for PWDs.
Gufwan noted that although past census records placed Nigeria’s PWD population at 2.6 million, current estimates now fall between 35.5 and 38 million. He compared this to South Korea, explaining that strong institutional backing and employment guarantees ensure no PWD is left behind. He urged Nigeria to adopt similar standards. He added that disability inclusion should involve everyone who is committed to supporting PWDs, not only those living with disabilities.
Both organisations agreed that concrete action, wide sensitisation and systemic adjustments are urgently needed. They also reached an agreement to establish a Joint Committee of the NOA and NCPWD to design collaborative areas that will strengthen nationwide awareness, improve implementation of the Disability Act and support full inclusion of PWDs in national life.
