Kaduna State Government to Implement Disability Act for Inclusive Development
The Kaduna State Government has announced plans to begin implementing the Disability Act, which aims to ensure equality and mainstream the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the state. Alhaji Zubairu Muktar, Special Adviser to Governor Uba Sani on NGO matters, emphasized the government’s commitment to removing barriers that hinder access to services in both public and private sectors.
The announcement was made during a strategic roundtable discussion and orientation for media houses on disability reporting in Zaria. The Disability Act, originally passed and signed into law by former Governor Nazeer El-Rufai in October 2021, has not yet been implemented. Muktar expressed his determination to meet with the governor to expedite the Act’s implementation.
The initiative received praise from Mr. Monday Okwoli, Disability Inclusion Adviser for SightSavers, an NGO partnering with the state on this effort. Okwoli highlighted the importance of addressing the needs of the approximately 9.7% of Nigerians who live with disabilities, according to the National Demographic Health Survey. The programme also focused on educating the media to help reduce stigma and discrimination faced by persons with disabilities in accessing public services.
Hajiya Rakiya Umar, Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Disability Affairs Board, lauded the initiative, noting that implementing the Disability Act would significantly reduce barriers for persons with disabilities, enhance their access to services, and support their rehabilitation and empowerment across the state.
