By Lanre Oloyede
In continuation of its advocacy objectives, the Association of Accessibility Professionals (AAP, Nigeria) on December 3rd, 2024 collaborated with the Cedarseed Foundation and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Tajudeen Abass to organize the National Convention on the representation of Persons With Disabilities in the ongoing constitutional reform.
The event, themed “Nothing About Us, Without Us,” was held at the Conference Room of the National Assembly Complex Library in Abuja in commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities and the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.
It marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing constitutional reform process, focusing on inclusive representation for PWDs in governance.
Key Stakeholders and Dignitaries
The convention saw the participation of prominent stakeholders, including:
Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Ph.D., GCON, Speaker of the House of Representatives
Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs
Hon. Abba Isah, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Disability Matters
Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, Executive Secretary, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD)
Lois Auta, President/CEO, Network of Women with Disabilities (NWD)
Barr. Yusuf Iyodo
AAP, Nigeria Board Chairman/General Coordinator
Hon. Abdullahi Aliyu Usman, President, Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD)
Ms. Beatrice Eyong, UN Women Country Representative
Dr. Richard Montgomery, British High Commissioner
Pasquale Salvaggio, Canadian High Commissioner
Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria
The convention was powered by the National Assembly and supported by UN Women and the United Nations, with contributions from the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Disability Matters, NCPWD, JONAPWD, and the Young Persons with Disabilities Alliance (YPDA).
Highlights of the Convention
The event featured critical activities, including:
1. Presentation of a Motion: A motion was presented on the House floor to include a representative from the disability community in the Constitutional Reform Committee.
2. Recognition of Advocacy Efforts: The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, was honored with the title of Patron of PWDs in Nigeria for his dedication to disability inclusion.
3. Showcasing Talents: PWDs showcased their talents, highlighting their capabilities and potential for contributing to society.
Engaging Panel Sessions
The convention also hosted two thought-provoking panel sessions:
Panel Session 1:
Title: From Advocacy to Action: Securing Seats for Persons with Disabilities in Governance
Discussion: Panelists explored the role of constitutional amendments and inclusive representation of PWDs in governance.
Panelists:
Ms. Susan Kelechi
Ms. Rebecca Ijeh
Ms. Cynthia Okachi
Fatimah Mohammed
Moderator: Barr. Yusuf Iyodo
Panel Session 2:
Title: Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future
Discussion: The session focused on enhancing leadership opportunities for PWDs to build an inclusive future.
Panelists:
Ms. Comfort Ekwo
Mr. Festus Zenda
Mr. Chris Agbo
Mr. Donald Unanka
Moderator: Ms. Catherine Akor
The Way Forward
The convention concluded with a resounding call for action, urging the inclusion of PWDs in decision-making processes. The emphasis on constitutional reform reflects a growing recognition of the need to dismantle barriers and ensure equal opportunities for all Nigerians.
The event serves as a beacon of hope for the disability community and a reminder that inclusion is not just an option but a necessity for a truly representative democracy.
