'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - In a powerful statement marking this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), Aare Hon. Tolu Bankole, the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Leader for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), has called for intensified efforts to amplify the leadership and inclusion of individuals with disabilities.
Speaking on the global theme for 2024, “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,” Hon. Bankole emphasized the critical need for policies and initiatives that empower PWDs and ensure their active participation in all spheres of life.
Progress in Disability Inclusion in Nigeria
Highlighting the strides made in Nigeria, Hon. Bankole lauded the enactment of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, a landmark legislation that prohibits discrimination against PWDs and seeks to foster an inclusive society. Several states have domesticated the Act, signaling progress in recognizing and upholding the rights of PWDs. However, Hon. Bankole urged states yet to implement the Act to do so promptly, ensuring no Nigerian is left behind.
Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the APC-led Federal Government has introduced policies aimed at inclusion and accessibility. Social protection programs, employment initiatives, and accessible infrastructure are central to the government’s agenda to empower PWDs. Hon. Bankole also commended the APC National Working Committee (NWC), led by Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, for prioritizing disability inclusion within the party’s structure, ensuring representation and participation of PWDs in leadership roles.
Hon. Bankole’s Contributions
In his capacity as National Leader for PWDs, Hon. Bankole detailed his personal contributions to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities. Through grants, scholarships for PWD students and their children, medical interventions, and other welfare initiatives, he has sought to alleviate the challenges faced by PWDs. These programs not only provide immediate relief but also empower families to access education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, fostering long-term independence and inclusion.
Challenges and Economic Realities
Despite these efforts, Hon. Bankole acknowledged the economic challenges that continue to disproportionately affect PWDs. Limited access to employment and rising costs of living have further exacerbated vulnerabilities. He stressed the need for targeted interventions to bridge these gaps and ensure PWDs have access to resources and opportunities essential for their development.
Call to Action for Leadership and Inclusion
Hon. Bankole issued a clarion call to stakeholders across government, the private sector, and civil society to champion the cause of PWDs through the following measures:
Creating Leadership Opportunities: Establish pathways for PWDs to take on leadership roles in public and private sectors, ensuring policies reflect their needs and aspirations.
Implementing the Disability Act: Accelerate the domestication and implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act, 2018 in all states.
Promoting Economic Empowerment: Develop tailored programs to enhance economic inclusion, including entrepreneurship, skills development, and employment opportunities.
Ensuring Accessibility: Conduct comprehensive audits of public spaces to ensure they are accessible to all individuals.
Increasing Awareness and Advocacy: Intensify campaigns to combat stigma and discrimination, fostering greater acceptance and understanding of PWDs.
A National Imperative for Progress
As the world observes IDPD 2024, Hon. Bankole reiterated that inclusion is not just a moral obligation but a necessity for national progress. He called on all stakeholders to work collaboratively in building a future where everyone, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.
“Let us harness the resilience and achievements of persons with disabilities as we continue to build a stronger, more equitable society,” Hon. Bankole stated.
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