Message From Managing Director, INCLUSION Magazine, Mohammed Shehu Ahmadu

The Albino Foundation Public Notice

Our latest edition of the Inclusion Magazine brings to bear the numerous vices bedeviling the country, from the increasing cases of domestic violence to the exclusion of women from the political space.

This edition features the various activities of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development in an exclusive interview with the Hon. Minister Hajiya Sadiya Umar Farouq.

The minister speaks about what the ministry, since its establishment, has achieved in its quest to improve the lives of millions of Nigerians across the 36 states and the FCT. This ranges from relief materials to victims of flood disasters, security challenges, to the internally displaced persons, among others.

We as major stakeholders championing the struggles of persons with disabilities, women, youths and other vulnerable persons want to use this medium to call on state governments to implement and

strengthen existing laws to safeguard the lives of their citizens. With dwindling economic resources across the nation, Nigerians are suffering from untold hardship, including loss of jobs as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Many organizations had to lay off staff, while others had to cut salaries to the barest minimum.

Trending on the social media platforms is the issue of domestic violence, with some 47,000 women and girls around the world reportedly killed by their intimate partners or other family members in 2020, as captured in a UNODC report.

In Nigeria, almost eight in 10 persons across gender and geopolitical zones believe the prevalence was increasing, and in all its forms—men against women, women against men and then general domestic violence against children, according to a poll.

Domestication and implementation of the Persons with Disabilities Act must be included in political

campaigns as we approach the 2023 elections. They should be included in policies, posters, promises wherein PWDs and Nigerians must hold government accountable before the end of their tenure.As those in government seek re-election, Nigerians must look at their scorecards and vote credible leaders that will move this great country forward.

Empowerment and employment at all levels of government should be a priority, we as a people must

not relent to enforce the 5% slot for all MDAs and the private sector as mandated by the act.If there are vacancies and opportunities, every Nigerian irrespective of their disability status, as long as the individual can deliver, must be given a chance.

We would continuously use our medium (both print and online) to advocate for the rights of persons

with disabilities. Having sustainable incentives or a trust fund to cater for the health, education and

economic and civil rights is also crucial at this point.Nigeria must take its pride of place in Africa as a

country that cares about the plight of persons with disabilities, youths, woman and vulnerable people.

INCLUSION is a voice for persons with disabilities, let us together change the perceptions and myths on disabilities, and encourage ability in disability. Finally, we as a medium that covers all facets of life, our doors are open to partner with organizations and individuals committed to improving the plight of persons with disabilities.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria