By Israel Adamu, Jos
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Mohammed Doro, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening disability inclusion following a strategic meeting with leaders of the Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD) in Abuja.
The engagement, held at the Ministry’s conference hall, was requested by JONAPWD and led by its National President, Abdullahi Usuman, alongside the National Secretary, Dr. Ishaku Adamu. The discussions focused on improving access, representation and support for over 35 million Nigerians with disabilities.
Usuman, in his opening remarks, stressed the urgent need for stronger technical support for persons with disabilities across government institutions. He noted that many Nigerians with disabilities continue to face exclusion from donor-funded programmes and targeted interventions that are readily available to other vulnerable groups.
Expanding on these concerns, Dr. Adamu highlighted the absence of disability-focused funding within regional development agencies. He also drew attention to outdated school curricula, particularly for blind students, who face serious obstacles in subjects such as mathematics and science due to non-inclusive learning materials and teaching methods.
Former Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons With Disabilities, Hon. James Lalu, emphasized the progress made since the establishment of the flagship disability commission in Plateau State. He noted that disability commissions now exist in about 28 states, but many remain underfunded and require stronger federal collaboration to function effectively.
Responding, Minister Doro acknowledged the gaps identified and pledged deeper collaboration with the National Commission for Persons With Disabilities and other stakeholders. He revealed that the Ministry is already holding discussions with the World Bank on potential projects to support inclusive education and broader disability-focused initiatives.
The Minister also addressed funding challenges linked to shifting donor priorities and underscored the need for more locally driven solutions. He added that appointing a technical adviser with a disability is under serious consideration to strengthen policy development and ensure representation at the highest levels.
The delegation described the visit as “historic,” marking the Minister’s first formal engagement with the national disability community. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to build stronger partnerships and advance disability inclusion for millions of Nigerians living with disabilities.
