In January 2019, after many years of advocacy by disability groups, Nigeria finally signed into law the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, also called the Nigerian Disability Rights Act.
This law was a big step forward. For the first time, it gave legal backing to the rights of over 30 million Nigerians with disabilities. It promised protection against discrimination, access to education, health care, employment, and public services.
The Act also created the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), whose job is to make sure the law is carried out, protect the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs), and advise the government on disability matters.
But a law on paper is not enough. Many Nigerians with disabilities still face barriers in schools, hospitals, workplaces, and transport. The big question is: How well is this law working in real life?
1. What is the Act about?
The law protects the rights of over 35 million Nigerians with disabilities. It makes discrimination illegal and demands equal opportunities in education, work, health, and public life.
2. What does the Act ban?
Denial of access to schools, jobs, housing, or healthcare because of disability.
Discrimination in politics, employment, or public services.
Failure to provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities.
Offenders face fines or up to 6 months in jail.
3. What about accessibility?
Public buildings, roads, and facilities must be accessible.
Transport operators (buses, airlines, trains) must make their services inclusive.
A five-year deadline (2019–2024) was given for compliance.
4. Education and employment
Children with disabilities have the right to free, inclusive education.
No employer can reject a qualified candidate because of disability.
Workplaces must provide assistive devices or adjust duties when needed.
5. New Commission created
The law established the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) in 2020. It oversees implementation.
It receives complaints from citizens. It promotes accessibility standards across Nigeria.
6. Accessibility Regulations 2023
To strengthen the Act, the government released detailed Accessibility Regulations in 2023. These explain how buildings, schools, and transport systems should be adapted.
7. Why does it matter?
The law is a turning point for disability rights in Nigeria. But activists warn that enforcement is weak. Many buildings remain inaccessible, and stigma persists.
Bottom line: The Disability Act is not charity. It is the law. Nigerians with disabilities have a right to equal treatment, and the government must ensure those rights are respected.