IWD 2026: FCTA REAFFIRMS FOCUS ON INCLUSION AS IT CELEBRATES WOMEN AND GIRLS WITH DISABILITIES

By: Josie Mudasiru

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive development, emphasizing that no group will be left behind, particularly women and girls living with disabilities.

This assurance was highlighted during the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration held in Bamishe Community, Kuje Area Council, where over 250 persons living with disabilities (PWDs) gathered for an outreach organized by the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat.

Mandate Secretary, Honourable Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, stressed the importance of promoting justice and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities.

Representing the Head of the Women Affairs Department, Aina Sanni, the mandate secretary noted that the theme of IWD 2026, “Justice, Rights, and Action for All Women and Girls,” aligns with the administration’s broader goal of inclusivity under the Renewed Hope Initiative.

According to her, the Secretariat will launch a pioneering community intervention to collect and compile data on women and girls with disabilities.

This initiative aims to strengthen government engagement with vulnerable groups and ensure targeted support.

“There is ability in disability, but with the right tools, empowerment, and political will, individuals can thrive. Many have succeeded through access to Braille, sign language, mobility aids, and other assistive devices. Those who are educated should help uplift others by teaching skills.” She said.

Participants at the event shared their experiences and appealed for further government support.

Ms. Justina Janet Agesepa, a visually impaired participant, commended ongoing road infrastructure projects, noting that improved access roads would make it easier to reach many PWD communities.

However, she called for more employment opportunities for graduates with disabilities and increased empowerment programs for women.

Also speaking, Mallam Luka Kura from the Cheta Disability Community highlighted pressing challenges such as poor road access and lack of clean water.

He appealed to the government to provide basic amenities, noting that residents currently rely on unsafe water sources.

The event concluded with the distribution of food items to participants, who expressed gratitude to the FCTA for its outreach and continued support.

The celebration not only underscored the resilience and potential of women and girls with disabilities but also reinforced the need for sustained action to ensure their full inclusion in society.