The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called on the Nigerian government to prioritize the needs of persons with disabilities (PWDs) by significantly increasing the budget allocation for this marginalized group in the 2024 supplementary budget and the 2025 budget.
This call aims to foster a more inclusive governance process in Nigeria.
According to a press release from CISLAC’s Executive Director, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), which was shared with Africa Health Report (AHR) on Thursday, the significance of this action in tackling the socio-economic difficulties experienced by People With Disabilities (PWDs) was highlighted.
The ED made this appeal in a four-point recommendation.
CISLAC’s recommendations include:
Increased Budget for Education
Investing in special education programs, vocational training, inclusive schools, and skills acquisition workshops to equip PWDs with the skills needed for gainful employment.
Adequate Healthcare Services
Allocating funds for accessible healthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers, assistive devices, and specialized medical care for PWDs.
Employment and Economic Empowerment : Implementing policies that promote employment opportunities for PWDs, supporting entrepreneurship, and enforcing anti-discrimination laws in the workplace.
Accessible Infrastructure Developing public infrastructure that is accessible to all, including government buildings, transport systems, and communication technologies.
“CISLAC reaffirms its commitment to advocating for the rights of PWDs and calls on all stakeholders to join hands in promoting an inclusive society where every Nigerian, regardless of their abilities, can thrive and contribute to national development”.
“The current budget allocations are insufficient to meet the needs of over 30 million Nigerians living with disabilities.
According to Musa, “Democracy as the system of governance requires that every member of society be treated equitably and with utmost priority in order to fully thrive as a functioning member of society.
“Socio-economic and political inclusion of PWDs in the Nigerian governance system is paramount for good governance to prevail in Nigeria.
“Despite the enactment of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act in 2018, the CISLAC’s pointed out that implementation has been hampered by inadequate funding. He urged the government to utilize contingency funds to increase the budget for PWDs, ensuring access to essential services such as education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and accessible infrastructure.
