The Albino Foundation Public Notice
by Abdullahi Abdulqudus
Disability is a global issue that affects millions of people, including those in Nigeria, where individuals with disabilities are often overlooked and marginalized. Despite their potential, many people with disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria face barriers to accessing healthcare, education, and employment. This neglect persists despite the knowledge and expertise that many PWDs possess, which could contribute significantly to societal development.
In Nigeria, it is estimated that more than 25 million people live with some form of disability. Despite efforts by the government, such as the 2019 Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, PWDs continue to face significant challenges. This law was intended to ensure access to education, healthcare, and employment for PWDs, as well as make public infrastructure more inclusive. However, the implementation of the law has been slow, and many PWDs still face systemic obstacles in their daily lives.
One major issue is the underestimation of the skills and talents of PWDs. These individuals have demonstrated expertise in various fields, yet they are often denied opportunities because of societal stigma. There are numerous examples in Nigeria of PWDs who have excelled despite their disabilities. Yinka Ayefele, for instance, became paralyzed after an accident but went on to become one of Nigeria’s most successful gospel musicians. His music production company has created jobs and contributed to the growth of the music industry. Grace Jerry, a disability rights advocate and musician, has used her platform to promote the inclusion of PWDs in Nigeria’s electoral process. Her organization, the Inclusive Friends Association, has raised awareness about the need for accessible voting, showing how PWDs can drive social change.
Another platform where PWDs have consistently proven their potential is in sports, particularly during the Paralympic Games. The Nigerian Paralympic team has consistently outperformed expectations, often surpassing the achievements of their able-bodied counterparts in international competitions. In the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, Nigeria won a total of 10 medals, including four golds, proving that PWDs possess extraordinary talent and determination. These athletes’ victories, like those of Bose Omolayo, who won gold in powerlifting, highlight the resilience and potential of PWDs when given a chance to showcase their skills. Such global recognition emphasizes the need to further invest in and support PWDs across all sectors, including sports, education, and employment.
In other parts of Africa and the world, PWDs have made similar contributions. Eddie Ndopu, a South African disability rights activist, has been recognized for his work with the United Nations on disability inclusion. Born with spinal muscular atrophy, Ndopu has advocated for accessibility and inclusion on a global scale, impacting international policy. In the United States, Stephen Hawking, a physicist who had amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), made groundbreaking contributions to science, proving that physical disability does not limit intellectual capability. In Kenya, Josephine Akiru, a visually impaired educator, founded a school for blind children, providing education and opportunities to students who would otherwise be left behind.
PWDs have also excelled in other fields within Nigeria and internationally. For instance, in 2023, Nigeria’s government appointed Irene Ojiugo, a wheelchair user, to head the National Disability Commission. Her appointment reflects a growing recognition of the need for representation and the inclusion of PWDs in leadership roles. Irene’s role allows her to advocate for policies that will benefit the disabled community and push for the effective implementation of the Disability Act. Similarly, in the private sector, many multinational corporations and local firms are adopting inclusive hiring practices, recognizing the diverse skills and innovation PWDs bring to the workforce.
These examples demonstrate that PWDs possess the knowledge and skills to contribute to society when given the opportunity. However, the barriers they face in Nigeria and elsewhere prevent them from realizing their full potential. Society often views disability as an inability, underestimating the talents of PWDs and limiting their access to essential services and resources.
To address these issues, there is a need for a change in societal attitudes and the enforcement of existing laws. The Nigerian government must ensure that the provisions of the 2019 Disability Act are fully implemented, providing PWDs with access to education, healthcare, and employment. The successes of PWDs in various fields, such as the Paralympics and other achievements in the public and private sectors, must be highlighted and celebrated to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity. Businesses should also be encouraged to hire PWDs, recognizing the valuable perspectives and skills they bring to the workforce. By breaking down these barriers and creating more inclusive systems, Nigeria can better harness the potential of PWDs for national development.
The issue of disability in Nigeria is multifaceted, and the mismanagement of PWDs has held back both individuals and the nation. However, the examples of PWDs who have succeeded despite the odds show that disability is not a barrier to achievement. By addressing the systemic challenges they face, Nigeria can unlock the potential of millions of its citizens for the betterment of society. The success of PWDs in the Paralympics and in leadership roles serves as a testament to what is possible when barriers are removed, and opportunities are made accessible to all.
Credit: Blueprint
