Abuja: The Women Affairs Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has initiated steps for the domestication and implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018. Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, the Mandate Secretary of the secretariat, announced this development during a three-day workshop on a rights-based approach to disability-inclusive development, government, and public policy.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the workshop was organized in collaboration with the World Bank for management staff and stakeholders across all sectors and sections of the FCT. Benjamins-Laniyi stated that the workshop aimed to develop the necessary strategy for the establishment of the FCT Disability Commission to ensure the full implementation of the Act. The Act is intended to protect the rights of persons with disabilities and promote their inclusion in all societal aspects.
Benjamins-Laniyi emphasized the importance of the Act’s domestication and implementation in the FCT as vital steps towards creating a more inclusive and accessible environment for persons with disabilities. She highlighted that the workshop was designed to equip participants with technical knowledge, skills, and orientation essential for the effective implementation of the Act. She expressed confidence in the workshop’s ability to provide valuable insights and practical solutions to challenges in promoting disability inclusion.
The pioneer mandate secretary reiterated her commitment to promoting the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities. She noted that the establishment of a Disability Desk demonstrated her dedication to disability inclusion and support, ensuring that the needs of women and children with disabilities are addressed and that they have equal access to opportunities and services.
Benjamins-Laniyi expressed gratitude to the World Bank for its continued support in promoting the rights of persons with disabilities and assured the commitment of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, which he described as a capital project deserving attention. She called for collaboration to make the FCT a model for disability inclusion and accessibility, empowering persons with disabilities to reach their potential.
Hadjia Majida Adamu, Special Assistant to the FCT Minister of State and Coordinator of the Social Investment Programme, commended Benjamins-Laniyi for her initiatives. Adamu highlighted the workshop as a critical step towards fostering an inclusive and equitable society where every individual, regardless of physical ability, is given equal opportunity to thrive. She noted that the step demonstrates FCT’s commitment to dismantling barriers and ensuring full integration of persons with disabilities into all aspects of social, economic, and governance structures.
Mr. Rex Irame, a legal practitioner and Chairman of the Albinism Association of Nigeria, FCT Chapter, underscored the importance of focusing on the Act’s implementation. He pointed out that neglecting implementation undermines the Act’s effectiveness. Dr. Adebukola Adebayo, Disability Inclusion Consultant at the World Bank, expressed optimism about the Act’s implementation due to the involvement of diverse stakeholders and government agencies.
Adebayo stated that the FCTA has taken necessary measures to involve every government institution and critical stakeholders, broadening the base for implementing the disability policy in the FCT. He emphasized that collaboration with the commission, supported by the World Bank and other stakeholders, would ensure the law’s practical implementation.
Adedayo mentioned that the World Bank would provide technical assistance to the Women Affairs Secretariat to develop the FCT Disability Policy and support the establishment of the FCT Disability Commission. The bank would also aid in developing and strengthening inter-agency collaborative mechanisms, enabling the FCT to fully implement the disability policy in line with the national disability Act.