Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) is a not-for-profit making organization of, and for persons with disabilities.
#DisabilityAccessNG#Justice4PWDs
On the 28th of May 2025, Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) organised a one-day capacity-building workshop on PWDs’ inclusion in decision-making. The Acting Director, Mr. Godwin Unumeri, warmly welcomed the participants and gave a brief overview of the programme. Representatives of the Attorney General, Ministry of Women Affairs, Commissioner for Budget and Planning, as well as the Chairman of the Abia State Commission for the Welfare of Disabled Persons, Mr David Anyaele in their goodwill messages commended the initiative and the tireless efforts of CCD in enhancing disability rights and inclusion. They also affirmed the commitment of the State Government to inclusive governance, social inclusion, and equal opportunities.
The resource person, Dr. Babatunde Asenuga, made a presentation on Understanding Disability Rights and Participation in Governance, after which contributions were made by participants. Moving on, participants emphasized the need for wider community outreach, grassroots sensitization, and the production of disability laws in accessible formats such as braille. They also called for increased political participation by PWDs, unity within the community, and the appointment of PWDs as Disability Desk Officers in MDAs, while urging attendees to share knowledge gained from the training.
This project was supported by @disabilityrightsfund
@qualitative_the@BONewsService@InclusiveNews1
The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities with support from PUKKA Logistics and Services Limited organised a welfare outreach programme to distribute welfare packages-rice and vegetable oil to 240 persons with disabilities. This distribution aimed at supporting PWDs and their families with bags of rice and vegetable oil to help alleviate hunger and food insecurity.
The programme commenced with an address from the Admin and Finance Manager, Mrs. Florence Austin. She welcomed participants and emphasized that CCD has been working over the years to ensure the inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities in the society. Ms. Christiana Njoku did a brief introduction of the centre to familiarize participants with the work of the centre.
Thereafter, Ms. Beulah Akingbelu-Banjo, the Managing Director of Pukka Logistics and Support Services Ltd commended the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities for joining hands with them in empowering lives, particularly for mobilizing PWDs for the outreach. According to her, in the spirit of ensuring that no one goes hungry, Mr. Sudeep Ramnani and Mr. Jai Mahtani--International businessmen and foreign investors in the Nigerian market in partnership with Pukka Logistics and Support Services Ltd decided to include persons with disabilities in the distribution of food items, as a way to contribute to the efforts of the Nigerian government to alleviate hunger and food insecurity in the country, particularly for PWDs who are the mostly affected.
To ensure that the distribution process was orderly, there was provision of security cover to avoid potential disaster of any sort.
At the end of the distribution, beneficiaries expressed profound gratitude to the CCD for the opportunity to benefit from the welfare package made available by the PUKKA Logistics and Services Limited.
From May 14th to 16th, 2025, Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) organized a three-day capacity building workshop on the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021 and Disability Laws, Development and Validation of the Ondo State Demand Charter on PWDs’ Inclusion in the Petroleum Industry Act (2021).
The workshop convened critical stakeholders, including the traditional rulers, heads of government ministries and agencies, leaders of the disability community, and leaders of Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs). Their presence and insights enriched the dialogue and their commitment in addressing the existing gaps in the benefit structures for PWDs.
Setting the stage, Mr. Godwin Unumeri, Acting Director at CCD, welcomed participants and emphasized the significance of the programme in promoting inclusive development for all. Hon. David O. Anyaele, Founding Director of CCD, also encouraged stakeholders to harness the provisions of existing legal frameworks especially the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act to champion systemic inclusion. He stressed that meaningful engagement with government and institutional actors through the lens of these legal tools would help reduce inequality and promote the principle of leaving no one behind.
The workshop was attended by key dignitaries, including Princess Abike Bayo-Ilawole, Secretary to OSOPADEC; His Royal Majesty, Oba Oladimeji Afolabi of Igbokoda land; His Royal Majesty, Oba Adeoye Olawale of Araromi land; Mrs. Folashade Arise, Chairperson of the Ondo State Agency for the Welfare of Persons with Disabilities; Prince Adewale Ikuesan, Advisory Secretary of the Ogborikodo Host Community Development Trust; and Mr. Franklin Oloniju, Executive Director of Life and Peace Development Organisation (LAPDO). These stakeholders commended CCD for the intentionality behind the project and expressed optimism that the programme would deepen their understanding of how best to enhance support for PWDs in the oil-producing communities of Ondo State.
Over the course of the workshop, participants were schooled on critical topics such as Understanding Disability Rights; Host Communities Funds, Ending Barriers Against Niger-Deltans with Disabilities, Demand Charter (Scope and Dimensions), and Baseline Assessment of Stakeholder’s Knowledge on PIA and PWDs inclusion. The event concluded with co-creation and validation of the Ondo State Demand Charter on the inclusion of PWDs in the PIA benefit structures. Among the key demands articulated were the inclusion of PWDs in employment within regulatory agencies and HCDTs, the enactment of supplementary legislation to guarantee disability inclusion in the PIA framework, the appointment of PWDs to Host Community Development Trust Boards, management and advisory committees, the implementation of accessible projects, and the involvement of PWDs during needs assessments.
The programme was widely described as groundbreaking, with major participants applauding CCD for its leadership in convening such a timely and transformative initiative. It marks a significant step toward institutionalizing inclusive practices and ensuring that no one is left behind in the development processes.
The project was funded by the @FordFoundation
Pictures: @Canon
#disability
#pwds
#inclusion
#oilandgas
On Wednesday, 30th April 2025, Centre for Citizens with Disabilities in partnership with Coappt orgnaised an online training on “Harnessing the Limitless Opportunities in Artificial Intelligence for PWDs.” The webinar opened with a remark by the Acting Director - Mr. Godwin Unumeri, who emphasized the importance of including PWDs in the digital space to ensure they are enlightened, engaged, and empowered.
This was followed by a training presentation by Mr. G. O. Lawal, which focused on how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the lives of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). It began with an introduction to AI in simple terms, highlighting real-life applications and tools that can aid PWDs, such as captions, sign language interpretation (SLI), speech-to-text software, and job platforms. Participants watched videos showcasing real-world examples of AI being used by PWDs, including technologies that allow users to control computers using their minds.
The webinar also underscored the importance of advocating for the accessibility of digital products during the research and development stage to ensure inclusion from the outset. Participants were encouraged to join communities of technologists to understand and address accessibility gaps
On 23rd April 2025, the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities with support from @Canon organised another session of the photography training workshop following the success of the first session that was held on 11th April 2025. The training was organised to further train and empower PWDs on photography skills.
The CCD team extended warm welcome to the Canon team, led by the Canon Central and North Africa Public Relations and Social Media Manager, Swetha Ramesh, including the trainers--- Austen Udoh and Tore Oriase
and all the participants to the training. Thereafter, Ms. Christiana Njoku emphasized the purpose of the training and urged trainees to ensure they pay rapt attention to the trainers, even as they walk them through both the theoretical and practical sessions of the training, so as to learn the necessary basic skills to excel in photography, as it would impact their life in many ways, particularly in telling their stories to the world.
Participants ccommended the Centre for organising such an impactful workshop and for making it possible for them to be part of the training and used the opportunity to shared what ignited their passion for photography. Swetha appreciated the CCD team for the great work put into organising another session of the training, which was followed by her views and perspectives about PWDs. Speaking further, Swetha urged trainees to focus on learning from the training and encouraged them to use learnings from the training to impact, not only their lives, but the lives of other PWDs who are not privileged to attend the training.
The Canon trainer, Austen started the photography training by about what they learned about photography in the previous session, as a way to test their knowledge, which trainees actively responded to. The training centred around how to handle a camera, the different modes and features in a camera, and their functions when taking photos to get the desired result, this he did by giving each participant a Canon camera to take pictures of their fellow participants and anything they like and afterwards, present it, as a way to check their progress, which the participants with excitement and readiness did accordingly. Austin added that for professional photography, it is necessary to determine the type of photography to venture into, as there are different types of photography to choose from.
The training session came to a close with a brief backstage interview. The Canon team appreciated CCD for hosting the workshop, as well as mobilizing PWDs to be trained in photography skills.
#disability #photography
It's TODAY
Centre for Citizens with Disabilities, in partnership with Coappt is organizing an online training on "Harnessing the Limitless Opportunities in Artificial Intelligence for PWDs."
This session will expose you to how AI can enhance independence, productivity, and inclusive innovation for persons with disabilities.
Date: Wednesday, 30th April 2025
Time: 12:00 Noon
If you are yet to register, click the link: https://t.co/X8UUjqc0TY
Register now and secure your spot
On 24th April 2025, the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities with support from the Dangote Leadership Development Programme of the Dangote Groups empowered fourteen (14) persons with disabilities in Lagos State with wheelchair to enhance their mobility. The programme started with CCD team welcoming the representatives and used the opportunity to commend the Dangote group for taking this step in empowering persons with disabilities.
The team, led by the Internal Audit Manager, Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc (DSR), Lebimoyo Olubunmi commended CCD for the great work the Centre is doing in advocating for the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities, particularly in empowering them and their families to maximize their potentials. Speaking further, she stated that Dangote Group is passionate about giving back to the society and as it is the culture of the organisation to ensure that everyone is given the opportunity to participate in society on an equal basis, the team came up with the programme to empower persons with with disabilities in Lagos State by distributing wheelchair to beneficiaries as a way to enhance their mobility and participation in the society.
The highlight of the programme was the distribution of the wheelchair to fourteen beneficiaries. Following the presentation, beneficiaries expressed profound joy for benefiting from the empowerment. They commended both organisations in their efforts to improve the lives of persons with disabilities. The moment was well captured as beneficiaries were receiving their wheelchair.
The team appreciated the Centre and beneficiaries for making the programme a success, reiterating that they will continue to support and empower persons with disabilities towards enhancing their lives to contribute to the society.
@DangoteGroup
From 23rd to 25th of April, the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities organised a Three-Day Capacity Building Workshop on the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021 and Disability Laws / Development and Validation of the Abia State Demand Charter on PWDs’ Inclusion in the Petroleum Industry Act (2021). The event brought together critical stakeholders, including the Representative of the Abia State Governor, Representative, Permanent Secretary of Abia State Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Chairman of the Abia State Commission for the Welfare of the Disabled People, the Representative of Abia State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ASOPADEC), HCDT Board chairmen and members, disability leaders, PWDs in host communities, traditional rulers, CSOs, and the media among other persons critical to the discussion.
Opening the event, the Acting Director, Mr. Godwin Unumeri, applauded the participants, particularly the special guests, for honouring the invitation. He also underscored the rationale for the programme, given the exclusion of PWDs in the PIA. Goodwill messages were also taken, with the Representative of the Abia State Governor, Hon. Ngozi Blessing Felix, Commissioner for the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, emphasising the Governor’s interest in issues that affect PWDs and his commitment to ensuring that their social welfare and protection are adequately catered for. Hon. David Anyaele outlined the persistent exclusion of PWDs from oil and gas benefit structures while also expressing the Commission’s support for CSOs that bring interventions aimed at improving the quality of life of PWDs. He encouraged everyone to pay attention because the discussions would lead to impactful outcomes. ASOPADEC representative enumerated past interventions and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusivity and the wellbeing of PWDs. The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Abia State, in his goodwill message, also emphasised that the Governor, through their ministry, advocates for inclusivity in the membership of Trusts. He highlighted the importance of including PWDs in all benefit structures and called for the amendment of the Act to incorporate qualified PWDs into the structures of the HCDT. The Chairmen of the HCDTs also identified the need to include PWDs in benefit structures and processes and acknowledged that it would require deliberate effort.
The first presentation, titled Disability Rights and Models, was facilitated by Mr. David O. Anyaele, who explored the concept of disability, disability models, legal frameworks, the current realities of PWDs, and solutions to ending barriers against PWDs. This was followed by the second presentation, titled Ending Barriers Against Niger-Deltans with Disabilities, facilitated by Mr. Godwin Unumeri. The presentation provided an in-depth insight into the Petroleum Industry Act (2021), the disability gap within the law, the project focus, its alignment with international frameworks, and the environmental analysis of the Niger-Delta region.
The second and third days were designated for the development and validation of the demand charter. The programme opened with a welcome remark from the Acting Director, Mr. Godwin Unumeri, followed by other opening formalities, including the introduction of participants and an overview about CCD. Four major presentation sessions were conducted, including Baseline Analysis of Abia Stakeholders’ Knowledge on PIA, Ending Barriers Against Niger-Deltans with Disabilities, Demand Charter (Scope and Dimensions), and Understanding the Host Community Fund. Participants were also trained on CCD’s Safeguarding Policy. They were given a take-home task to write the draft of the demand charter.
On the third day, a refresher session was conducted and the groups solidified the demand charter. Some of the demands put forward included the appointment of PWDs across the governance structure of the PIA, the provision of 5% employment opportunities for PWDs in regulatory organisations and HCDTs, and ensuring access to infrastructure and projects undertaken by HCDTs, among others.
The project is supported by @FordFoundation@environewsng@BONewsService@qualitative_the@InclusiveNews1@channelstv@MobilePunch
Centre for Citizens with Disabilities, in partnership with @coappt is organizing an online training on "Harnessing the Limitless Opportunities in Artificial Intelligence for PWDs."
Are you a person with a disability eager to explore the future and the limitless opportunities in tech? Then this training is for you! This session will expose you to how AI can enhance independence, productivity, and inclusive innovation for persons with disabilities.
Date: Wednesday, 30th April 2025
Time: 12:00 Noon
Click the link to register: https://t.co/X8UUjqbt4q
Bonus: The first 20 persons to register and participate will receive free data to support their learning!
Register now and secure your spot
#disability
#tech
#empowerment
#training
Following group presentations, it was resolved that the inputs would be consolidated for final submission as the official Akwa Ibom Demand Charter.
Mrs. Florence Austin gave the closing remarks
From March 25–27, 2025, Centre for Citizens with Disabilities organized a three-day capacity-building workshop on the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 and the co-creation of a demand charter for the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the PIA benefit structures. Opening the event, Mr. Godwin Unumeri, Acting Director of CCD, gave a run-down of the agenda and emphasized its importance to the disability community and overall development. He urged full participation and expressed gratitude to the attendees.
Mr. David Obinna Anyaele also applauded the participation and recalled his advocacy efforts during the drafting of the PIA. He commended the Akwa Ibom Governor for appointing aides for disability matters and called on the community to support them. Goodwill messages were delivered by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare; the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs; a representative from the Eket Board of Trustees, Mrs. Yvonne Oluyede; and a representative from IBENO HCDT, Barr. Diamond.
The first presentation, titled “Ending Barriers Against Niger-Deltans with Disabilities,” was facilitated by Mr. Godwin Unumeri. In his presentation, he explained that PWDs face multiple barriers, including poor access to information, exclusion from decision-making at all levels, and denial of access to socio-economic opportunities, all of which led to economic hardship, low employment, and reduced income.
The second presentation, titled “Dissecting Chapter Three of the PIA 2021 and Its Benefit Structures for Host Communities,” was facilitated by Mr. Akpan Saviour, Esq. He critically analyzed the PIA and later concluded with the third presentation, “Leaving No One Behind – Integrating Disability Inclusion into PIA Benefit Structures,” emphasizing the need for all critical stakeholders to include PWDs in all programmes, operations, and activities.
The second day - “Co-creation of the Akwa Ibom Demand Charter for the Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in the PIA Benefit-Sharing Structures,” began with a warm opening remark by Mr. Godwin Unumeri, Acting Director of CCD. This was followed by the first presentation, “Overview of the PIA 2021,” where Mr. Akpan provided an in-depth analysis of the Act, which comprises five chapters, 319 sections, and eight schedules. He described it as a significant reform that consolidates all laws and regulations governing Nigeria’s oil and gas sector into a single legislative framework. The Act is expected to foster transparency, accountability, and good corporate governance, particularly through a competitive licensing process that replaces confidentiality clauses.
Mr. Diamond, a lawyer and representative of the Chairman of Ibono HCDT, delivered a goodwill message in which he shared insights into the HCDT formation process and stressed the importance of community needs assessments as mandated by the Act. The second presentation, “Introduction to Disability and Disability Rights,” was delivered by Mr. David Obinna Anyaele. He recounted the struggle in passing the Disability Act and explained its content. He encouraged PWDs to understand the Act and its links to the PIA for effective advocacy.
The third day was dedicated to validating the Akwa Ibom Demand Charter. It began with a welcome address by the Acting Director of CCD, Mr. Godwin Unumeri. After a presentation by Mr. Akpan, participants populated the demand charter and presented their submissions.
The project was supported by @FordFoundation@BONewsService@InclusiveNews1@environewsng@qualitative_the@THISDAYLIVE@TheNationNews
#disability
#oilandgas
#policy
#Inclusion
Are you a person with disability in need of a wheelchair?
The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities is pleased to announce call for applications for persons with disabilities in Lagos and Kogi States who are in critical need of wheelchair.
To apply, please click here https://t.co/kOu9MimeLX to fill out the application form with accurate information and submit.
The deadline for submission of application is Thursday, 17th April 2025
Due to the number of applications that will be received, only successful applicants will be contacted.
This initiative is proudly supported by the @DangoteGroup
Get the Mobility You Deserve!
Are you a person with a disability in need of an artificial limb to help you regain your mobility and confidence?
Don't let mobility be a barrier to your participation in society. Everyone deserves to move with dignity and independence.
If you or someone you know needs an artificial limb, please call:
+2348168181231 or +2348077990001
Let's work together to promote inclusion and equal opportunities for all!
From 9th to 11th April, the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), in collaboration with the Abia State Commission for the Welfare of Disabled Persons, organised a 3-day stakeholders' engagement and policy review on the Abia State Climate Change Policy. The programme brought together persons with disabilities (PWDs), government MDAs, CSOs, and climate experts to review the draft climate change policy and ensure it reflects the voices, needs, and rights of persons with disabilities.
The first day brought together persons with disabilities to review and identify the gaps in the policy. Opening the event, CCD’s Acting Director, Mr. Godwin Unumeri, emphasized the need for intentional inclusion. Mr. David Anyaele, CCD's Founder and Chairman of the Abia State Commission for the Welfare of Disabled Persons, after recognizing all present, stated that CCD's intervention was timely and relevant, as many are still unaware that a climate change policy exists. He reiterated the Commission’s strong commitment to ensuring a disability-friendly climate change policy that leaves no one behind in government response activities.
The Resource Person, Madam Esther Chioma, Special Assistant to the Abia State Governor on Climate Change and Sustainability, delivered her first presentation on the Overview of the Climate Change Policy, focusing on the policy draft and the associated action points. Her second presentation focused on identifying gaps in the draft, which led to several key suggestions from participants, including inclusive climate emergency response training, accessible healthcare, community rescue missions, disability-friendly agriculture, infrastructure and policy follow-up mechanisms.
The second day brought together MDAs and CSOs to review and contribute to the policy draft. The Attorney General’s representative and the Special Assistant on Vulnerable Groups praised the efforts and recent progress on disability inclusion. They also emphasized the need for individual responsibility, such as avoiding littering to promote environmental sustainability.
Breakout sessions across Justice, Agriculture, Security, and Health sectors produced strong recommendations, such as inclusive early warning systems, environmental levy exemptions for PWDs, cancer care center(s) for persons with albinism, and workplace safety and accessibility measures.
The third day provided a recap and a forward-looking discussion on the policy's implementation. At the end of the review, participants urged the consultant to ensure that all the recommendations are duly captured as recommended and shared with the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities before the validation.
This project is supported by Disability Rights Fund
@BONewsService@InclusiveNews1@environewsng@EnviroNews@UNDP@UNEP@qualitative_the
#disability
#climate
#policy
On Friday, 11th April 2025, ten persons with disabilities were trained in photography with support from @Canon_India The training commenced with a photoshoot session where all participants received a “moment of joy” framed portrait picture.
The team welcomed the Managing Director of Canon – Mr. Somesh Adukia – and the entire Canon team to the Centre and appreciated their kind gestures and thoughtfulness in empowering persons with disabilities with skills to tell their stories to the world. The team also gave a brief introduction of the Centre.
The Managing Director, Somesh Adukia, in his remarks, commended CCD for the great work, particularly in advocating for the rights, inclusion, and empowerment of persons with disabilities. He stated that the mandate of the Centre aligns with that of Canon and, as an organisation committed to the philosophy of "living and working together for the common good," the Moments of Joy programme was established to exemplify their commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity beyond their workplace.
It was an exciting moment as Canon donated a camera and printer to CCD to capture and tell the stories of persons with disabilities. The CCD team and participants applauded Canon for this beautiful initiative.
The intensive training commenced after the handover, where participants were schooled on the parts of a camera, types of cameras, how to handle a camera, photography tips, and a hands-on session on photography.
@BONewsService@InclusiveNews1@qualitative_the
#photography
#canon
#disability
On the 13th day of March 2025, the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities paid an advocacy visit to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Abia State Command to advocate for their support on disability-inclusive climate change adaptation and mitigation, particularly in prioritizing the safety of PWDs in situations of risk, disaster, and emergency, which is one of their mandates. The Acting Director, Mr. Godwin Unumeri, read the advocacy notes, which highlighted the research findings, current gaps in NSCDC operations, and recommendations for improved service delivery.
The requests included a partnership to train PWDs on disaster management tips to ensure they are not left behind in climate-change-triggered-disaster management; training of NSCDC officers to ensure they are equipped to assist PWDs effectively during emergencies and disasters; public awareness campaigns and budgetary provisions for disability matters; accessible office structures; and increased cooperation and collaboration with the disability community. Mr. Godwin also presented IEC materials to Deputy Commandant Anthony A. Damisa, who represented the State Commandant.
In his response, the Deputy Commandant, A. A. Damisa, committed that the Command will fulfill all the requests put forward by the organization. Responses from other officers followed, and Mrs. Florence Austin gave the closing remarks.
The project is supported by @DisabRightsFund@BONewsService@InclusiveNews1@qualitative_the@GuardianNigeria@MobilePunch@environewsng
CALL FOR CONSULTANT
The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) is committed to promoting the rights and inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria. With support from the Disability Rights Fund (DRF), CCD has been implementing a project focused on promoting disability-inclusive climate change adaptation and mitigation in Abia State.
As part of this project, CCD conducted a baseline study to assess the impact of climate change on persons with disabilities in the state. The study provided valuable insights into the unique vulnerabilities faced by PWDs and highlighted gaps in existing climate policies. Following this, CCD organized a two-day capacity-building workshop for OPDs, PWDs, CSOs, and government agencies, equipping stakeholders with knowledge on disability-inclusive climate change response. Additionally, CCD has been engaging with relevant ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) through advocacy visits to ensure their climate response strategies are inclusive of PWDs.
To further this effort, CCD is seeking an experienced and qualified consultant to develop and review a policy on climate change adaptation and mitigation in Abia State with a focus on Persons with Disabilities. The purpose of this policy formulation and review is to ensure the meaningful inclusion of PWDs in climate change policies and interventions.
Requirements
1. Proven expertise in climate change and policy development
2. Quality experience working on disability inclusion and advocacy
3. Strong understanding of disability-inclusive frameworks
4. Ability to conduct stakeholder consultations and facilitate workshops
5. Ability to conduct research and produce comprehensive reports
PWDs are strongly encouraged to apply.
Interested consultants should submit their CV, portfolio, cost, and a brief proposal to [email protected], copying [email protected] on or before 28th March 2025
On Wednesday, March 5, 2025, CCD team paid advocacy visit to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) South East Region with the goal of promoting disability-inclusive climate-triggered disaster response strategies. Opening the visit, Mr. Godwin Unumeri, CCD's Acting Director, presented findings from CCD's baseline study, emphasizing the urgent need for inclusive disaster management strategies. He highlighted key challenges faced by Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), including increased vulnerability, inadequate policies, and limited awareness.
In addressing these challenges, the team proposed a partnership with NEMA to promote inclusive climate change adaptation strategies. They also advocated for training programmes for PWDs on climate change mitigation, as it relates to climate-triggered disasters, sensitization of NEMA staff on disability-targeted disaster response services, and budgetary allocations for disability-inclusive disaster response efforts. Other points included deliberate inclusion of PWDs in disaster response efforts, add PWDs to their communication platforms for real-time disaster information and early warnings, and the use of sign language interpreters in public institutions.
Mr. Igwe Nnamdi, the Head of Operations acknowledged the importance of educating communities, especially PWDs in the rural communities, and committed to supporting inclusivity efforts. He encouraged CCD to maintain communication with NEMA for continued progress.
Closing the visit, Mrs. Florence Austin appreciated NEMA for the visit and stressed the need for the establishment of a disability desk at NEMA to provide specialized services for PWDs. She also emphasized the importance of strengthening the partnership between NEMA and CCD to enhance inclusive disaster response strategies.
Supported by Disability Rights Fund
#disability
#PWDs
#climatechange
#ClimateAction
#disaster
@nemanigeria @NCCCNigeria @InclusiveNews1@BONewsService@qualitative_the