The Disability Community in Kogi State, North Central Nigeria, has taken a significant step towards achieving sustainable disability inclusion by presenting a comprehensive Charter of Demands to the state government. This initiative, spearheaded by the Kogi State Chapter of the National Association of Persons with Physical Disability (NAPWPD), aims to ensure the full participation of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and their organizations in government planning and budgeting processes.
During the public presentation of the Charter of Demands at the Kogi State Office For Disability Affairs (KOSODA), the Disability Community emphasized the consultative nature of its development, involving representatives from all clusters and associations of persons with disabilities across the state’s 21 Local Government Areas.
Key demands outlined in the charter include amendments to state public finance management laws and procurement acts, full implementation of existing disability laws, and integration of disability equity issues into the state’s long-term development plan. The community also advocated for the establishment of Education Assessment and Resource Services (EARS) to address the specific needs of learners with disabilities, alongside a commitment of at least 2.5% of GDP towards disability inclusion efforts.
Furthermore, the principle of ‘non-retrogression’ was highlighted to prevent arbitrary cuts in budgetary allocations for disability-specific projects. The Disability Community urged the state government to prioritize the provision of essential services such as education, healthcare, water, sanitation, housing, and employment for people with disabilities.
In response, the Acting Executive Secretary of KOSODA, Mrs. Lydia O. Fadamijo, expressed appreciation for the inclusivity efforts of the state government, citing the passage of the Kogi State Disability Law 2022 and the establishment of KOSODA as significant milestones. Fadamijo reaffirmed KOSODA’s commitment to developing disability-inclusive planning guidelines and ensuring compliance across all sectors.
The Charter of Demands presentation follows a two-day capacity building workshop supported by the US-Based Disability Rights Fund, which emphasized the importance of CRPD-compliant budgeting and advocacy. Participants engaged in focus group discussions and gained insights into budget tracking and analysis, highlighting the essential steps towards achieving inclusive budgeting in Kogi State.
The Disability Community’s proactive engagement with the government underscores a collective commitment to fostering an inclusive society where the rights and needs of persons with disabilities are fully recognized and addressed. As stakeholders continue to collaborate and advocate for meaningful change, the path towards sustainable disability inclusion in Kogi State grows clearer and more attainable.
