The 2024 International Day of Persons with Disabilities was commemorated on December 3rd, 2024, at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Congress Hall Abuja. The Nigeria National Association of the Deaf (NNAD) was represented by Comrade Henry Obrutu (SSZC), Comrade Labaran Abubakar (NCZC,) Comrade Nasir Dalha (NCW), Mrs. Ashibel Cordelia (NFS), and Faustinu Efobi Aghaeri (SEZC )
Goodwill Messages
1. Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) Hon. Ayuba Gufwan expressed gratitude to all stakeholders for their unwavering support and commitment to disability inclusion. He highlighted the importance of collective action in building a society where no one is left behind. He also acknowledged the resilience of persons with disabilities and their significant contributions to national development.
2. Hon. Abba Isa
The Senior Special Adviser to the President on Equal Opportunities and Special Needs encouraged stakeholders to focus on implementing the Disability Act and emphasized the importance of amplifying the voices of persons with disabilities through the media and public awareness campaigns.
3. Mr. Sunday Izakaya
The Director of Special Needs at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Poverty Reduction and Social Development reiterated the federal government’s dedication to increasing funding and ensuring the inclusion of persons with disabilities in all national programs.
4. Mr. Fabian Tukmen Represented Sightsavers. He highlighted their unwavering commitment to building an inclusive society through initiatives such as health education and economic empowerment programs. He also announced Sightsavers’ Access to Work Scheme, which will launch in early 2025 to support businesses in hiring and retaining employees with disabilities.
5. Her Excellency Ms. Leilani Bin Juda (PSM)
Delivered a goodwill message emphasizing the global effects of disability and reaffirmed her commitment to fostering inclusivity.
Attendance
Attendees included representatives from various ministries, agencies, and development partners, including:
1.Hon. Ayuba Gufwan (Executive Secretary, NCPWD)
2. Senator Ireti Kingibe (representing the Senate President)
3. Hon. Abba Isa (SSA to the President on Equal Opportunities and Special Needs
4. Mr. Sunday Izakaya (Director of Special Needs, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs)
5. Representatives from Sightsavers, RoLAC, World Bank CBM International CBM Global The Leprosy Mission Nigeria, CHAI, and the British Council
5. NNAD representatives: Comrade Henry Obrutu (SSZC), Comrade Labaran Abubakar (NCZC), Comrade Nasir Dalha (NCW) and Mrs. Ashibel Cordelia (NFS)
Closing Remarks
The program concluded at 4:00 pm with closing remarks and farewell messages delivered by Mr. Lawrence Idemudia, Director of Social Integration National Commission for Persons with Disabilities.
Submitted by:
Mrs. Ashibel Cordelia (National Financial Secretary)
For NNAD National Executives
