Disability Inclusion Essential In Strengthening Nat’l Security – Odumosu

The Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, Dr Olusola Odumosu has reiterated that disability inclusion is essential in strengthening national security.

Odumosu who stated this in Abuja noted that by protecting vulnerable groups, it enhances economic growth, where all citizens can participate productively, promote social unity and reduce discrimination as well as build trust in institution where every citizens feel seen and protected.

The FCT NSCDC Boss maintained that the Command firmly believed that security is not about preventing threats but upholding dignity, fairness, and equal opportunity for all citizens, including persons with disabilities.

“Inclusion is core components of national security.
With over 25 million persons with disabilities in Nigeria, we can not talk about development or security, while a significant segment of our population faces avoidable barriers.

According to him, the FCT Command has taken significant steps to strengthen inclusive security, improve Communication and deepen their capacity to serve citizens with hearing impairments adding that the FCT Command, has successfully trained 250 personnel in sign language proficiency.

Dr Odumosu however said the strategic initiative was to enhance emergency response for persons with hearing impairment, accessibility of their service in public places, effective communication during rescue operations and conflict mediation as well as confidence and trust between the Corps and the disability community.

“This is one of the largest sign language capacity – building efforts by any security agency in the FCT and it reflects our commitment to making our operations inclusive, humane, and responsive, Odumosu stated”.

The FCT NSCDC helmsman, said the Command remains committed to protecting the rights and safety of persons with disabilities in communities, markets, worship centres and national events; support accessibility standards during safety inspections and enforcement as well as protecting persons with disabilities during emergencies and public safety operations.

” For Nigeria to advance, we must all work together to promote full implementation of the 2018 Act, inclusive education and skills development, economic empowerment and job opportunities, provide accessible public buildings, transportation and ICT, representation of persons with disabilities in governance noting that inclusion is not an option but a national duty.

Nkiru Njemanze, Edited By Grace Namiji