Center for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) has commenced media sensitisation programme in Abuja as part of activities marking the 2nd anniversary of the passage of the National Disability Act.
Mr David Anyaele, Executive Director, CCD said this in a statement on Monday in Abuja.
Anyaele said that the event was an opportunity to review the state of implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Prohibition Act 2018.
He said that the organisation would engage with critical stakeholders to share challenges and success stories and create awareness regarding the rights, respect and dignity of Person’s With Disabilities (PWDs).
“Interestingly, January 17 marks the 2nd anniversary of the passage of the law by President Muhammadu Buhari which ended the 18 years struggle to secure a national legislation.
“A legislation that prohibits all forms of discrimination and other harmful practices against more than 31 million Nigerians with disabilities.
“The day is a day of joy, merriment, and thanksgiving to God for seeing Nigerians with disabilities through in the struggle for an act which protects citizens with disabilities in Nigeria.
“And the day is also another reminder of the support and contributions of individuals, organisations and institutions whose efforts led to the passage of the Act,” he said.
He said that the act which was a product of struggle, would largely depend on PWDs commitment to hold states accountable and push for its full implementation.
Anyaele said that the group had lined up activities in Abuja to empower PWDs, disability organisations, and to enlighten relevant line Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) on the Act.
“CCD would be commemorating this year’s event from Jan. 18 to Jan. 21 in Abuja by interfacing with selected line MDAs on the Implementation of the Act.
“Engaging with stakeholders on Accessible Public Building; Interactive forum with Public Event Managers on Access to Event Centres; and presentation of Awards to individuals and organisations that have contributed to the passage of the Act,” he said.
The National Disability Act provides for the full integration of PWDs into the society and establishment of the National Commission for Persons with disabilities and vests the commission with the responsibilities for their education, health care, social, economic and civil rights.