Govt officials commit to advancing disability rights, inclusion in Nigeria

…Unveils ‘The Ability Life Initiative’ in Abuja

Nigeria’s disability rights movement recently reached a historic milestone with the official launch of The Ability Life Initiative (TALI), an advocacy organisation.

The official unveiling in Abuja brought together government officials, industry leaders, and human rights advocates, all united by a shared vision of building a society where persons with disabilities (PWDs) can thrive without barriers.

Under the theme “The Journey, The Impact, and The Future,” TALI’s unveiling set the stage for policy commitments, strengthened partnerships, and an urgent call to action—ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of ability, has equal opportunities to succeed.

Speaking at the unveiling event in Abuja, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Kwara State governor, emphasised the need to build a stronger collaboration and policy implementation.

He lauded the founders of the Ability Life Initiative for their visionary leadership and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to expanding disability inclusion programmes in Kwara State.

“Our administration is committed to scaling these programmes to enable every person with disability in Kwara State access to opportunities that empower them to lead dignified and fulfilling lives,” he assured.

AbdulRazaq further pointed out the role of leadership in dismantling societal biases toward disability, acknowledging his wife’s contributions to the cause.

He called for greater private-sector engagement and urged stakeholders to fully embrace inclusion by going beyond the legal minimum employment quotas.

Similarly, Hope Uzodimma, Imo State governor, represented by his deputy, Chinyere Ekomaru, lauded the state’s commitment to fostering an inclusive society.

Government representatives reinforced their commitment to driving disability inclusion through policy reforms, increased funding, and targeted initiatives.
Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the House of Representatives, said the National Assembly recognises Nigerian Sign Language, which is why it is used during government proceedings.

He called for the strict enforcement of the 5 percent employment quota for persons living with disability in public offices and higher budget allocations for disability inclusion programmes.

Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, minister of State for Labour, promised enhanced job placement and skill training programmes for Persons living with disability.

He called for stronger collaboration with NGOs to ensure employment policies are fully implemented.

Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, Minister of Science and Technology, expressed interest in partnering with TALI to advance assistive technology and workplace accessibility.

Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, minister of Women Affairs, said there would be a joint initiative with TALI to provide educational tablets for children with disabilities across all 36 states.

She committed to strengthening policies protecting women and children with disabilities.

Ned Nwoko, Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, said he had introduced a bill to reinforce legal protections for PWDs.

Chikaosolu Ojukwu, SAN, pledged pro bono legal services for PWDs in partnership with TALI.

The unveiling involved a thought-provoking panel discussion, “Bridging the Gap: Advancing Disability Rights and Inclusion in Nigeria,” featured leading voices in policy, education, and accessibility, who explored key solutions for: Strengthening inclusive education policies; Expanding vocational training and employment programmes for PWDs; Enhancing assistive technology and accessible infrastructure.

Earlier, Prada Uzodimma, co-founder of TALI, said in her opening address that PWDs do not seek charity but equity.
She outlined TALI’s three core pillars, namely: Advocacy – Strengthening legal protections and enforcement mechanisms for PWDs; Skill Acquisition & Education – Providing economic empowerment tools for sustainable livelihoods; and Inclusion – Ensuring full integration and participation in all aspects of society.

She said TALI plans to collaborate with local and international organisations to provide accessible housing and healthcare support for PWDs and expanded social services and financial aid programmes.

Oprah Uzodimma Ohaeri, cofounder of TALI, expressed deep gratitude to attendees, reiterating TALI’s unwavering commitment to creating an equitable society for all.

The initiative aims to cement its place as a driving force in the fight for equal rights and opportunities for PWDs in Nigeria. By pushing for policy reforms, fostering partnerships, and amplifying the voices of PWDs.