The National Association of Persons with Physical Disabilities (NAPWPD) has called on its members across the country to step up efforts in strengthening the association and building a stronger voice for persons with physical disabilities in Nigeria.
The call was made during the 2025 National Convention held in Kaduna, a two-day gathering that brought together delegates, leaders, and advocates from different states. The convention was supported by the Disability Rights Fund (DRF) and the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD).
In his opening remarks, the National President, Comrade Rilwan Mohammed Abdullahi, reflected on the long journey of NAPWPD. He explained that the association started with little structure and resources but has since achieved major progress. From legal recognition to improved corporate identity and access to grants, NAPWPD has grown into the largest cluster within JONAPWD, giving it a strong voice in the fight for equality and inclusion.
“Our responsibility as leaders and members goes beyond representation; it is about action,” Abdullahi said. “We must ensure that NAPWPD remains a strong vehicle for empowerment, advocacy, and service delivery for people with physical disabilities across the country.”
He added that the progress recorded so far is only a foundation, and much more still needs to be done to build an association that truly delivers on its mission. For him, the convention is a chance to take stock, learn from challenges, and prepare for the future.
The theme of the National Convention, “Strengthening the Institution and Technical Capacity of NAPWPD for the Tasks Ahead,” set the tone for the conversations. The Chairman of the Planning Committee, Gboyega Alesinloye, said the choice of theme was deliberate. He explained that the convention was not just a routine gathering but an opportunity to talk openly about the struggles members face and find solutions that will move the association forward.
“This is a call to action,” Alesinloye said. “We must embrace innovation, collaboration, and collective responsibility if we are to build a sustainable future for our community.”
Delegates at the event agreed that building a stronger NAPWPD means building a stronger future for its members. Many participants described the Kaduna convention as a moment of unity and hope. It gave members a chance to connect, share experiences, and renew their dedication to fighting for the rights of persons with physical disabilities.
The convention also marked a moment of continuity in leadership, with Comrade Rilwan Mohammed Abdullahi reaffirmed as National President. Members welcomed the decision as a sign of stability and consistency for the association at a time when steady leadership is needed most.
For those in attendance, the convention went beyond speeches and formal sessions. It was about solidarity and belonging about knowing that together, persons with physical disabilities can push for a Nigeria where inclusion is not just promised but practiced.
As the convention closed, the message was clear: NAPWPD must remain a symbol of resilience, a rallying point for advocacy, and a platform that empowers its members to live with dignity and independence.
