Nigeria’s Disability Advocacy Gains Momentum with Launch of Disability Impact Fund

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

In observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Founder and Executive Director of Cedar Seed Foundation (CSF), Lois Auta Udonkatad has introduced the Disability Impact Fund (DIF) to tackle systemic discrimination.

Udonkatad who spoke during the Foundation’s International Disability Dialogue, Fundraising, and Award Night on Monday in Abuja, emphasized the need to go beyond mere inclusion, urging active participation and representation of people with disabilities(PWD).

Udonkatad, drawing inspiration from successful advocacy approaches in Nigeria, made a compelling case for urgent government and National Assembly action, specifically calling for designated budget allocations across ministries, departments, and agencies.

She explained that the focus is mainly on ensuring substantial funding for crucial entities that guarantee adequate support for PWD, like the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities.

Udonkatad outlined the fund’s primary objective to ensure compliance with the impending deadline of the Nigerian Disability Act. The funding will concentrate on key areas such as education, health, mobility, governance, and enforcing the Disability Act.

Highlighting collaboration with government bodies and disability organizations, she echoed successful models observed in recent disability initiatives in Nigeria.

In her words, “In commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we urge the government to incorporate a dedicated budget line in all ministries, departments, and agencies. We also implore the National Assembly to ensure sufficient budget allocations for organizations supporting persons with disabilities, particularly the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities and other departments directly assisting Nigerians living with disabilities.”

On her part, the Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, represented by Advisor, Partnership, and Local Rights Programme, Hajara Opaluwa Adamu, emphasized the critical role of collaboration in achieving meaningful change, resonating with the values upheld by ActionAid Nigeria.

Adamu, noted that the occasion, shed light on the challenges faced by the 1.3 billion persons with disabilities worldwide, including the over 19 million in Nigeria, representing approximately 9.6% of the population according to the 2018 National Population Commission.

She said, “ As the world reaches the halfway point to the 2030 Agenda, persons with disabilities continue to confront systemic discrimination and barriers hindering their inclusion in various aspects of society.

“ Persons with disabilities are not just recipients of assistance; they are crucial contributors to progress and key stakeholders in shaping a more equitable world.”

Adamu affirmed her commitment to promoting the rights, dignity, and full participation of persons with disabilities. The collaborative launch of the fund signifies a collective effort to dismantle barriers and create opportunities for everyone to thrive.