Yola: The Adamawa People with Disabilities and Vulnerable Support Initiative (ADPWDVSI), a non-governmental organisation, has urged for greater inclusion of women and girls with disabilities in the Michika and Madagali Local Government Areas of Adamawa State. Mrs. Salamatu Abdullahi, Executive Director of ADPWDVSI, made this call during the conclusion of a project aimed at empowering this demographic.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the project titled ‘The Empowerment of Women and Girls with Disabilities Towards Full and Effective Participation and Gender Equality,’ ran from September 2024 to May 2025. Supported by the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund (NHF) and implemented in partnership with UN Women, the initiative sought to eliminate violence against women and girls with disabilities, promote their economic independence, and ensure their active participation in community decision-making processes.
Abdullahi explained that the project’s primary objective was to create an environment where women and girls with disabilities can live free from violence, achieve economic autonomy, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. It included key components such as community sensitisation on disability inclusion, capacity building for local stakeholders, development of inclusive protection mechanisms, and advocacy for the domestication of disability rights laws in Adamawa.
Despite the efforts, Abdullahi noted that the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act has yet to be domesticated in Adamawa, presenting a significant challenge. The project also provided vocational training in areas like tailoring, poultry farming, backyard gardening, rice processing, shoemaking, and small livestock management to the beneficiaries.
Community engagement was a significant success, with traditional and community leaders involved from the outset to ensure ownership and sustainability. Abdullahi highlighted the importance of proper community entry for the project’s acceptance and ongoing commitment from the community.
A participant from Michika, Mr. Abraham Iliya, shared his positive experience, noting a shift in his perspective and a strengthened relationship with his community. He expressed that the project has significantly impacted his life and increased his belief in the recognition of persons with disabilities.
Dr. Olaniyi Aderibigbe, Project Analyst with UN Women, underscored the initiative’s role in promoting dignity and economic resilience for women and girls with disabilities. Aderibigbe highlighted that the vocational training and start-up kits were designed to ensure beneficiaries are financially independent and resilient.