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| All Progressives Congress, APC, National Leader of Persons with Disabilities, PWDs, Hon. Tolu Bankole |
The All Progressives Congress, APC, National Leader of Persons with Disabilities, PWDs, Hon. Tolu Bankole, has called government areas in Nigeria to appoint Supervisors for PWD Matters.
Bankole in a statement on Monday, in Abuja said said, the appointment is essential for inclusive governance at the grassroots level, especially with newly elected councils now in place.
According to him, despite years of advocacy, PWDs remain sidelined in key decision-making roles within many local governments.
He argues that appointing a Supervisor for PWD Affairsideally a PWD would help address this gap, ensuring issues affecting PWDs are considered directly within councils.
The statement reads, "Local governments are the closest level of government to the people, and their policies impact daily lives," Hon. Bankole stated. "Yet, many LGAs lack direct representation of PWDs in their leadership. An appointed Supervisor for PWDs Matters in each local government, ideally a PWD, would serve as an essential voice for the community, advocating for their needs and ensuring that policies are implemented in line with the *Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018.* This is a crucial step toward addressing the prevailing exclusion of PWDs in our governance."
“The Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act 2018 provides a clear mandate for inclusive policies and protections that support the welfare of PWDs across Nigeria. Key provisions that underscore my recommendation include:
“1. Right to Accessibility and Inclusion (Section 1): This provision grants all persons with disabilities the right to inclusion and participation in governance at all levels. By appointing PWD Supervisors in each LGA, the government would actively support this right, ensuring that decisions affecting the community directly consider their needs.
“2. Non-Discrimination and Equal Opportunity (Section 4): The Act mandates non-discrimination against PWDs in public institutions, obliging governments at all levels to prevent exclusion based on disability. Hon. Bankole highlighted that the exclusion of PWDs in many local government councils is a form of institutional discrimination. Appointing PWD Supervisors would help rectify this by providing a seat at the table for this community.
“3. Provision of Social Welfare and Services (Section 9): This section emphasizes the importance of social welfare services for PWDs, including employment, healthcare, and social inclusion programs. Local PWD Supervisors would be vital in facilitating these services, ensuring LGAs implement accessible, inclusive programs in line with national policy.
“4. Accessibility in Public Facilities (Section 5): The Act requires all public infrastructure to be accessible to PWDs. PWD Supervisors can help oversee the compliance of LGAs with this mandate, making sure that public facilities are PWD-friendly and fostering greater independence and dignity within their communities.
“Hon. Bankole further emphasized that this move would not only support PWDs but also contribute to Nigeria’s broader objectives of equity and social justice. He pointed out that the appointment of PWD Supervisors would create an inclusive environment at the grassroots level, where decisions and policies are often made that directly affect the lives of PWDs. "It is crucial to remember that true democracy includes the voices of all citizens, particularly the marginalized," he noted.
“He also highlighted that a PWD Supervisor in each LGA would facilitate better data collection and reporting on PWD matters. This can drive more informed, evidence-based policy decisions that effectively address the unique needs of the PWD community. Additionally, it would empower PWDs to contribute to the economic and social fabric of their communities by ensuring equal access to employment, education, healthcare, and other essential services.
“Hon. Bankole concluded by urging all LGA leaders and stakeholders to support this critical initiative, which will mark a significant step toward building an inclusive, equitable society for all Nigerians.
"Appointing PWD Supervisors across Nigeria's LGAs will reflect a national commitment to dignity, respect, and opportunity for every Nigerian," he stated. "Together, let us work toward a future where no one is left behind."