Kaduna, Nigeria – February 15, 2025 – The first-ever Kaduna State Disability Summit, organized by the Kaduna State Disability Board, took place over two days on February 13th and 14th, 2025, at the Assa Pyramid Hotel. The event, themed “Breaking Barriers and Exploring the Roles of Relevant Stakeholders: Building Inclusion and a Sustainable Future Where Everyone Belongs,” brought together policymakers, disability advocates, and community members to discuss critical issues facing persons with disabilities in the state.
The summit aimed to create a platform for dialogue, encourage collaboration, and push for lasting solutions to ensure people with disabilities are fully integrated into all aspects of society.
Suleiman Abdul, the Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), delivered a passionate remark on the necessity of creating opportunities for persons with disabilities in education, employment, entrepreneurship, and financial services. Abdul stressed the importance of implementing and enforcing policies that protect the rights of people with disabilities.
The summit featured several impactful presentations that addressed key areas of concern:
Inclusive Budgeting and Disability Issues in Kaduna State
The first paper, presented by Mr. Yusuf Goje, focused on inclusive budgeting and the need to mainstream disability issues into Kaduna’s Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as Local Government Areas (LGAs). Goje emphasized that people with disabilities are equal stakeholders in society and should not be treated as charity cases. He urged the government to allocate resources and engage in advocacy to ensure that funding for disability-inclusive initiatives is prioritized.
Accessibility of Public and Private Infrastructure
The second paper, by Rilwan Muhammad Abdullahi, tackled the issue of accessibility to public and private infrastructure under the Kaduna State Disability Law. Abdullahi pointed out that inclusivity should not solely be the responsibility of the government, but the private sector must also play its part in ensuring accessibility for people with disabilities.
Social Inclusion and Education Challenges
Aliyu Haruna Yakasi’s presentation focused on the social inclusion of persons with disabilities. He highlighted the systemic exclusion faced by people with disabilities, especially in education and the workplace. Haruna emphasized the need for inclusive education, proper healthcare services, and an environment that supports persons with disabilities in reaching their full potential. He also underscored the challenges of financial exclusion and stereotypes that hinder social inclusion.
Accurate Data and Mindful Language
A key takeaway from the summit was the need for accurate data on the number of persons living with disabilities in Kaduna State. It was also noted that the language used when addressing people with disabilities must be mindful and respectful. Participants agreed on the importance of understanding the diverse needs of the disability community to effectively advocate for their rights and well-being.
Role of Government and Development Partners
On the second day of the summit, participants focused on the role of government and development partners in promoting disability inclusion. Adejor Abel discussed how the government can promote disability rights by creating enabling structures, enacting laws, and providing essential services such as affordable health, education, and social services. Abel also stressed the importance of raising awareness, responding to needs, and conducting research to understand the population of persons with disabilities in the state.
Inclusive Systems and Evidence-Based Planning
Hajiya Hadiza Umar shared her perspective on the need for systems that cater to the needs of people with disabilities. She advocated for evidence-based planning that considers the needs of all vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities. Umar stressed that people with disabilities must be included in the implementation of policies that affect them.
Personal Experiences Shared
Participants also had the opportunity to share their personal experiences, shedding light on the daily challenges faced by persons with disabilities. These stories helped to underscore the urgency of addressing the barriers preventing full inclusion in society.
Moving Forward: Collaboration and Advocacy
The summit concluded with a call for collaboration between government, development partners, disability advocates, and the private sector. Participants emphasized the need for technical support, financial inclusion, and greater engagement with multinational companies to ensure the rights and needs of persons with disabilities are met.
The Kaduna State Disability Summit has laid a solid foundation for ongoing discussions and actions to create a more inclusive, sustainable future for all residents, regardless of ability. The momentum from this summit is expected to drive long-lasting change in policies and practices, promoting a society where everyone truly belongs.
