The Albino Foundation Public Notice
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has reiterated its unwavering commitment to ensuring full compliance with accessibility provisions as outlined in the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018. The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, made this declaration today while receiving a delegation from the Inclusive Friends Association (IFA), led by its Executive Director, Grace Jerry, on a courtesy visit.
In his remarks, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan emphasized that accessibility is a fundamental right, not a privilege, and the Commission will take decisive action against institutions that fail to comply with the law.
> “With over 35 million persons with disabilities in Nigeria, we cannot afford to be ignored. Public buildings must be inclusive for all, and those that fail to meet accessibility standards will face legal consequences. The era of impunity is over. Under my leadership, the NCPWD will aggressively pursue the full enforcement of accessibility laws to ensure that persons with disabilities can fully participate in society without physical barriers.”
He further acknowledged that despite the legal requirement for public buildings to be accessible, enforcement remains a major challenge five years after the passage of the Disability Act. However, he assured that the Commission, in collaboration with key stakeholders, would implement robust mechanisms to address non-compliance.
During the meeting, the Inclusive Friends Association (IFA) presented its Accessibility Monitoring Website, a digital tool designed to assess and report compliance with accessibility standards in public buildings, including government offices, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and commercial establishments.
Speaking at the meeting, Grace Jerry, Executive Director of IFA, emphasized the urgent need for stronger enforcement measures, noting that many public structures remain inaccessible to persons with disabilities despite existing legal provisions. She outlined key areas where collaboration with the NCPWD is crucial, including:
Strengthening enforcement mechanisms to ensure full compliance with accessibility laws.
Leveraging the Accessibility Monitoring Website to track and report violations in real time.
Engaging policymakers, architects, and construction firms to promote inclusive building designs.
Advocating for strict penalties against non-compliant institutions.
In response, the Executive Secretary outlined the Commission’s next steps, which include:
Reviewing the Accessibility Monitoring Website to integrate its findings into official enforcement actions.
Engaging relevant government agencies to ensure strict adherence to accessibility requirements.
Intensifying advocacy and sensitization efforts to promote compliance among public and private institutions.
Considering legal action against buildings that remain inaccessible despite legal provisions.
The meeting marked the beginning of a strengthened partnership between NCPWD and IFA, with both organizations committed to ensuring that public spaces across Nigeria become fully accessible for persons with disabilities.
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities remains resolute in its mission to uphold the rights of persons with disabilities and will continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders to enforce accessibility standards nationwide.
