The National Association of Persons with Physical Disabilities (NAPWPD), Plateau State Chapter, has called on the Plateau State Government to urgently constitute the State Disability Rights Commission to strengthen inclusion and safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities.
The call was made during the commemoration of International Wheelchair Day, where the association emphasized the need for decisive action to promote accessibility, dignity, and equal participation for persons living with disabilities.
State Chairman of the association, Gotau Kitgak Munbupba, said the commission is critical to advancing disability inclusion and addressing the challenges faced by wheelchair users and other persons with disabilities across the state.
“While we appreciate the steps taken so far toward inclusivity, we respectfully call on the government to take further decisive action by ensuring the proper constitution of the Plateau State Disability Rights Commission,” he said.
Munbupba noted that wheelchairs play a vital role in enhancing mobility, independence, and participation in society, describing them as gateways to education, employment, and social engagement for many users.
He also appealed to the National Assembly, judiciary, and the general public to consider the needs of persons with disabilities in the design and construction of public infrastructure, stressing that accessibility remains a major challenge.
The association further advocated for the appointment of more persons with disabilities into key government positions, including Special Adviser to the Governor on Disability Matters, Senior Special Assistant, and Special Assistant roles.
According to the group, inclusion in governance would ensure that policies reflect the priorities of persons with disabilities and amplify their voices in decision-making processes.
The association also urged local government councils yet to appoint representatives of persons with disabilities as supervisory councillors to do so without delay, noting that inclusive development can only be achieved when no one is left behind.
Earlier, the group commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing a person with disability to head the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, describing the move as encouraging but stressing that more needs to be done at the state level.
In a question-and-answer session, stakeholders revealed that although provisions exist for disability advisory positions in the state, they have not been actualized, leaving the offices currently vacant.
They expressed optimism that the governor would address the issue, noting that such appointments had been made in the past and played important roles in promoting inclusion.
The association also highlighted the lack of reliable data on persons with disabilities as a major challenge affecting planning, funding, and advocacy efforts.
They called for collective efforts from government, development partners, and stakeholders to build a society where accessibility is guaranteed and equality is lived.
The event formed part of activities marking International Wheelchair Day, celebrated globally to recognize the positive impact of wheelchairs on the lives of millions of people and to promote inclusion and accessibility for persons with disabilities.
