NCPWD Pushes For Inclusion Of Persons With Disabilities In Nigeria’s Renewable Energy Sector
The Albino Foundation Public Notice
The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, has called for the inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria’s growing renewable energy sector. He made this call during a strategic meeting with the Vice President of the Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Associations Alliance (REEEA-A), Anita Adeyemi, at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
Anita Adeyemi, Vice President, REEEA-A, highlighted the lack of representation of PWDs in the clean energy sector, stating:
“In most climate action and renewable energy discussions, persons with disabilities are either absent or given no defined roles. Despite Nigeria’s advocacy for clean energy adoption, PWDs remain largely excluded from participation and access. We must work together to ensure they have access to sustainable energy solutions and economic empowerment within the sector.”
In response, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, Executive Secretary, NCPWD, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to fostering inclusivity:
“This partnership with REEEA-A will open new doors for persons with disabilities in the renewable energy space. From access to solar energy solutions to skills development and entrepreneurial opportunities, we are committed to ensuring PWDs are not left behind in Nigeria’s clean energy future.”
Key outcomes of the meeting included:
NCPWD’s participation in upcoming national and international renewable energy conferences, including the Brazil Climate Action Summit.
A joint initiative to assess the clean energy needs of PWDs across different disability clusters.
Collaborative training programs to equip PWDs with skills in solar energy installation, maintenance, and entrepreneurship.
Advocacy for increased inclusion of PWDs in government-backed renewable energy programs, including those under the Rural Electrification Agency (REA).
Hon. Ayuba Gufwan further stressed the necessity of making renewable energy initiatives both accessible and beneficial to PWDs:
“The transition to clean energy must be inclusive and sustainable. We call on all stakeholders—government agencies, private sector players, and development partners—to join us in making renewable energy accessible to all, especially persons with disabilities.”
This engagement marks a significant step toward ensuring inclusive development and leveraging renewable energy to improve the lives of PWDs across Nigeria.
