FCTA STRENGTHENS COMMITMENT TO DISABILITY INCLUSION

By: Josie Mudasiru

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusion and protecting the rights of Persons Living With Disabilities (PWDs) through the development of the FCT Disability Policy Document.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the FCT Chapter of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, highlighted recent strides made by the administration. She noted that the Minister’s approval for the establishment of a Disability Desk Unit within the Secretariat—headed by a person living with a disability—demonstrates a strong institutional commitment to inclusion.

She recalled that the implementation of the Disability Act and Policy in the FCT is being carried out in collaboration with the World Bank and was formally endorsed by the FCT Minister. According to her, the Secretariat plays a coordinating role in the process.

Emphasizing the guiding principle, “Nothing about you, without you,” Dr. Benjamins-Laniyi explained that the Disability Desk initiative is designed to be institutionalized across all Secretariats, Departments, and Agencies within the FCT.

She further expressed optimism that the FCT would soon establish a dedicated Disability Agency, pending approval from the Minister, Nyesom Wike. She noted that his administration has demonstrated a clear commitment to inclusive governance through various policies.

In addition, the Minister recently approved the designation of December 10 each year as a day to focus on the challenges and empowerment of the adolescent girl child—an initiative described as the first of its kind in Nigeria.

Dr. Benjamins-Laniyi called on stakeholders and development partners to intensify efforts toward eliminating barriers that limit the full participation of PWDs in society.

In his remarks, the Acting Chairman of JONAPWD FCT Chapter, Ayoade Beyioku Alase, commended the FCTA for its advocacy and support for the disability community. He also acknowledged the efforts of First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who recently facilitated the empowerment of 250 PWDs with ₦200,000 each.

Mr. Alase praised the administration’s developmental progress but urged the immediate establishment of the proposed FCT Agency for Persons with Disabilities.

He outlined key priorities for the disability community, including access to free health insurance, disability-friendly healthcare services, employment equity, social protection, and empowerment programs. He also emphasized the need for operational support for JONAPWD and improved data systems and infrastructure to ensure accessibility in public facilities.

Responding, the Mandate Secretary described JONAPWD as a valued partner and assured the association that the FCT Administration remains committed to safeguarding the rights, dignity, and welfare of persons with disabilities.