KANO (North-West, Nigeria) — Kano Civil Society Forum, has on Wednesday, lend their voice to calls on the Kano State government to expedite action towards establishing a commission solely to cater for affairs of the Persons Living With Disabilities, PWDs in the state.
The Forum who spoke through its President, Mohammed Bello and Secretary, Salisu Yusuf while addressing newsmen in Kano, said establishment of the commission is long overdue as the Nigerian Disability Act of 2019 mandates all states to establish frameworks that safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDS).
They maintained that the creation of a Kano State Commission for PWDS would not only fulfill this legislative obligation but also serve as a pioneering model for other states to emulate.
According to him, “The Kano Civil Society Forum (KCSF) convened this press conference today, to intensify its advocacy efforts urging the Kano State Government to expedite the establishment of a dedicated Disability Commission. This critical step is long overdue and indispensable for safeguarding the rights, promoting inclusion, and enhancing the well-being of people with disabilities (PWDS) within the state.
“A recent World Health Organization (WHO) report, as cited by the National
Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), indicates that approximately 35.1 million Nigerians live with some form of disability. While precise population data for persons with disabilities (PWDS) in Kano State remains limited, the Nigeria Association of Persons with Disabilities, Kano Chapter, estimated that 43,418
children with special needs resided in the state as of 2022. Considering these
figures, the overall population of adults and children with disabilities in Kano is
likely substantial. This population continues to encounter significant challenges, including limited access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities, coupled with pervasive discrimination and neglect.
“The KCSF acknowledges the significant strides made by the Kano State
Government in integrating disability considerations into its policies. Recent
initiatives, such as the provision of free healthcare services to over 5,000 persons with disabilities (PWDS) and the concerted efforts to ensure inclusive education, exemplify a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with disabilities within our communities. These programs represent crucial steps towards cultivating an inclusive society where all citizens have equitable access to
opportunities.
“While commending these achievements, we recognize that substantial further
action is imperative. The expeditious establishment of a Disability Commission is paramount to ensure the effective representation and addressing of the rights and needs of people with disabilities. This dedicated body would serve as a crucial oversight mechanism for the implementation of disability policies, facilitate robust advocacy efforts, and provide a vital platform for people with disabilities to articulate their concerns and advocate for their rights.
“The Nigerian Disability Act of 2019 mandates all states to establish frameworks that safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDS). The creation of a Kano State Commission for PWDS would not only fulfill this legislative obligation but also serve as a pioneering model for other states to emulate. Notably, states such as Gombe, Plateau, and more recently Yobe, have already established Disability Rights Commissions, demonstrating the tangible positive impact these institutions can exert on the well-being of individuals with disabilities.
“On a global scale, the establishment of the Disability Commission aligns with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), to which Nigeria is a signatory. The UNCRPD mandates the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms for all persons with disabilities. By establishing the commission, Kano State would unequivocally demonstrate its
commitment to upholding these international standards and actively contribute to the global endeavour to advance disability rights.
“Establishing a Disability Commission in Kano State will significantly contribute to
closing data gaps and fostering evidence-based decision-making regarding the can spearhead the collection of comprehensive and reliable data on PWDS in Kano State. This can involve conducting surveys, censuses, and other data-gathering initiatives to accurately determine the number, types of disabilities, and specific needs of PWDS across the state. By effectively collecting, analyzing, and utilizing data, the Disability Commission will play a pivotal role in ensuring that policies and programs in Kano State are truly responsive to the needs and aspirations of PWDS, ultimately leading to improved quality of life and greater inclusion for this marginalized segment of well-being of PWDS. The Commission the population,” they however stated.
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