FG Urges States To Domedticate Act To End Discrimination Against People With Disabilities

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Social Development and Disaster Management, Nasir Sani Gwarzo, had urged state governments to domesticate the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018 for effective service delivery to all People With Disabilities (PWDs) in the country.

He made the call in Abuja at the opening of the conference of directors responsible for the rehabilitation of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.

He noted that the Act seeks inclusiveness of the persons with disabilities in the areas education, healthcare as well as socio-economic and civil rights, among others.

Director, Special Needs of the Ministry, Nkechi Onwukwe, said, “As we may be aware, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) constitute a social group that is vulnerable to societal discrimination and negative public perceptions. They also face attitudinal barriers from the community, family members and service providers alike, as well as environmental and communication barriers.”

“These barriers have not only reduced their voices and participation in programme planning, but also their access to essential services.”

“They equally face systemic marginalization that lead to lower economic and social status, increased risk of violence and discrimination, barriers to access education, health care, information and services and justice as well as civic and political participation. These, thus hinder their participation on an equal basis with others.”