Speaker Decries Exclusion Of PWDs In Decision Making

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Abbas Tajudeen, has decried the exclusion of Persons with Disabilities, PWDs from meaningful political participation and decision-making processes.

Abbas expressed his concerns at an event to mark the International Day for Persons with Disabilities 2024, held at the National Assembly complex in Abuja.

Represented by the Deputy Speaker, Mr Benjamin Kalu, the Speaker lamented that these barriers not only hinder the development of PWDs but also slow the progress of the nation as talented individuals are not included in national development initiatives.

The Speaker noting that while the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018 was a landmark step towards addressing these issues, as the Act has laid the foundation for inclusivity, however its implementation has faced significant challenges.

He stated that currently, only about 19 states have domesticated this vital legislation, leaving many of its provisions unrealized in key areas such as accessibility standards for public buildings and transportation systems.

He also stated that budgetary constraints are often cited as the primary reason for these delays, assuring that the 10th House, recognizes these shortcomings and is committed to ensuring that the Act’s provisions regarding healthcare, accessibility, education, employment, and the prohibition of discrimination are enforced.

Abbas commended Mr President, for the launch of the Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme (PCGS), saying that the initiative demonstrates his commitment to inclusivity by reserving dedicated funds for the empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

He therefore urged all relevant agencies and stakeholders involved to act swiftly and efficiently to facilitate seamless access to these funds, with delays minimised in order to ensure that PWDs can promptly benefit from the scheme’s objectives.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji