The Albino Foundation (TAF) has held a National Electable Confab in Abuja. The Confab is was organized by The Albino Foundation (TAF) with support from the European Union (EU) to build the capacity of the persons with disabilities and enhance their chances of winning in elections.
The Founder, CEO, The Albino Foundation (TAF), JaKE Epelle appreciated President Muhammadu Buhari for creating the enabling environment for PWDs in Nigeria with the signing of the disability Act.
He also acknowledged The Independent National Electoral Commission for ensuring PWDs are included in the electoral processes in the country.
Mr. Epelle explained that the Confab is designed to mentor and create visibility for PWDs contesting in various elections and off-circle elections. The confab covered policy reforms, legislative changes, funding opportunities and other initiatives to enhance understanding of the opportunities to improve PWDs electability in elections. The event was to contribute to the improvement of democratic governance in Nigeria.
The Electability Confab had in attendance the Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, H. E. James Christoff, The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen , the representative of the European Delegation to Nigeria, the Country Director, Action Aid, and convener Situation Room, the Executive Director, Act Initiative, the Chairman and the members of the Board of Trustees of The Albino Foundation, PWDs contesting in the 2023 elections from various states and various federal, state and local governments position, among other dignitaries.
In her presentation, Ndifreke Ferdinand, Programme Manager (EU-SDGN II), The Albino Foundation shared data of PWDs registered and contesting in the 2023 general election as captured by INEC. Registered Voters:
In his keynote address, Director General, Institute for National Transformation (INT), Chairman Board Of Trustees, TAF, Prof. Vincent Anigbogu spoke on the need for PWDs involvement in elections, leadership and mentorship by boosting the confidence of current PWDs leaders and aspirants. particularly how excellent communication strategies can aide effectiveness and success.
Prof. Anigbogu said “I would like to congratulate The Albino Foundation for the excellent arrangements for this confab, particularly in conceptualizing its substance. I also would like to thank the European Union through the EU-SDGN Project II for supporting the organization of this event.
“With support from the European Union, The Albino Foundation has implemented enormous activities and advocacies over the years towards promoting an inclusive society and enhancing the political participation of persons with disabilities.
“Apart from the review of the Electoral Act, we can all testify to the availability of various assistive devices such as magnifying glasses, braille ballot, special cubicles, etc., during the 2022 gubernatorial elections in Osun and Ekiti. These were all aimed at enhancing the active participation of persons with disabilities in the electoral process and made possible by contributions from TAF and other like-minded organizations. TAF has indeed attained the Champion of Disability Inclusion status.
“the benefits of TAF’s ABLE2VOTE Campaigns and the Electability Confab cannot be overemphasized. Through purposeful engagements as these, the disability community can challenge existing barriers that limit their ability to exercise their full rights and responsibilities on an equal basis with other citizens. The much-desired shift from targets of charity to active members of the society will be attained sooner than expected.
There is presently an increased number of PWD registered voters and number of PWD candidates for the 2023 elections. I congratulate all the brave and courageous men and women seated before us today on your successful candidacy in various positions in your respective political parties. I urge you to remain a voice to voiceless and champions of disability inclusion.
“I also want to use the opportunity of this occasion to employ critical stakeholders, rights defenders and promoters to not relent in their work towards ensuring that every Nigerian citizen enjoys dignity, freedom and justice.”