From Ijeoma John, Nnewi
TAF Africa has called for renewed national commitment to disability inclusion as Nigeria joins the global community in marking the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). Speaking on the significance of this year’s theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” in a statement signed by the CEO and Founder of TAF Africa, Ambassador Jake Epelle, FNIPR, said the observance provides the nation with an important moment to reflect on existing gaps and accelerate action toward full inclusion of persons with disabilities.
Epelle noted that the theme aligns with the outcomes of last month’s Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, where world leaders reiterated their pledge to build just, inclusive, and equitable societies. He stressed that Nigeria must translate these global commitments into concrete policies and measurable progress at home.
While acknowledging some improvement in disability-responsive initiatives, Epelle expressed concern that millions of Nigerians with disabilities still face widespread exclusion in education, healthcare, employment opportunities, infrastructure, political participation, and digital access. He emphasised that disability inclusion must move from rhetoric to action, embedded into national planning, governance, and service delivery.
He reiterated the need for full enforcement of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, lamenting that compliance, particularly in public infrastructure and essential services, remains extremely low seven years after the law was passed. He urged all levels of government to prioritise implementation, adequate budget allocation, and strict monitoring.
Epelle also stressed the importance of strengthening political participation for persons with disabilities, saying democracy remains incomplete when any segment of society is excluded. He called on INEC, political parties, security agencies, and civil society organisations to adopt and enforce disability-inclusive measures ahead of future elections.
Highlighting the transformative potential of technology, Epelle called for increased investment in accessible digital systems, assistive devices, and inclusive social protection schemes to support long-term national development and economic empowerment.
He further underscored the need for stronger partnerships, stating that sustainable disability inclusion requires collaboration among government institutions, civil society groups, Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), the private sector, the media, and international development partners.
Epelle commended the resilience and contributions of persons with disabilities across Nigeria and Africa, noting their growing impact in governance, technology, entrepreneurship, education, the creative industry, and community development.
As Nigeria aligns with ongoing global commitments following the Doha Summit, Epelle urged the country to reaffirm that disability inclusion is not symbolic or optional, but a fundamental pillar of national progress. He maintained that a truly inclusive society is one where every individual can live with dignity, exercise their rights fully, and contribute meaningfully to national development.