By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi
A Non Governmental Organization, Inclusive Friends Association, IFA, has advocated for the domestication of the Disability Bill in Benue State.
Executive Secretary, Inclusive Friends Association, Grace Jerry, who disclosed this at a one day advocacy workshop on the domestication of the disability bill in Benue held at the Metropolitan Hotel Makurdi, called for spirit of collaboration towards creating an inclusive and equitable society.
Jerry who was represented by the Director in charge of Programs, Inclusive Friends Association, Mr Molly Joshua Ardo, said it is their collective efforts to ensure that persons with disability are well respected and recognized among others.
“I extend a warmly welcome to all of you who have graciously taken time to be part of this significant initiative which aims to create a formidable alliance of voices and strategies to pave the way for the integration of the Disability Bill into Benue’s legislative and social framework.
I am proud to share with you that our relentless efforts have not only led to the establishment of a Disability Commission in Abia State, but have also set the ball rolling in inspiring similar initiatives in other States like Gombe,Taraba and Adamawa States. The establishment of the Disability Commission in some states and most recently in Abia State is a testament to the power of advocacy collective action.”
She Implored the Benue State Government to advance the right of persons with disabilities in the state, expressing optimism that there will be transformation for persons with disabilities in Benue State and beyond.
In his remarks, the Program Manager, Inclusive Friends Association, Mr Stephen Idoko, appealed to the Benue State Government to accord the rights of persons with disabilities in the state as one it’s top priorities by sending the Disability Bill as an Executive Bill to the Benue State House of Assembly for its passage into law.
Also speaking, the Chairman, Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, JNAPWD, Benue State Chapter, Mr Bartholomew Bem Anshe, explained that the advocacy workshop would create positive impact in championing the cause for the rights of persons with disabilities in Benue State in particular and Nigeria as a whole.
Mr Anshe expressed optimism that the Disability Bill would soon be passed into law in the state by members of the Benue State House of Assembly.
A Resource Person, Mrs Safiya Bichi, while presentating a paper titled ‘Civic Advocacy, Legislative Engagement and Political Inclusion’ called for building of partnership, bridge building towards achieving success.
She noted that advocacy may leverage various methods, including grassroots campaigns/mobilization, town hall meetings, protest, strategy and timing among others.
