National Commission for Persons with Disabilities- NCPWD, Nigeria

NCPWD CALLS FOR FULL INCLUSION OF CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES AT 2026 CHILDREN’S DAY CELEBRATION

National Commission for Persons with Disabilities has urged action on Accessible Education, Empowerment, and Rights Enforcement for Nigeria’s children.

The Commission also calls on state governments, institutions, communities, and families across Nigeria to ensure the full inclusion and protection of children with disabilities, as the nation commemorates the 2026 Children’s Day celebration.

Executive Secretary of the Commission, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, in his Children’s Day speech, emphasized that children with disabilities must no longer remain invisible in national development conversations.
Speaking on the 2026 Children’s Day theme, “For Every Child, Every Right: Leaving No Child Behind,” Hon. Gufwan described the theme as timely and deeply reflective of the realities faced by millions of Nigerian children living with disabilities.

“Today, I ask Nigeria to do something special: to see the children we often do not see and to hear the voices we often do not hear,” he stated.
According to him, more than seven million children with disabilities across Nigeria’s 8,804 wards continue to face exclusion from education, healthcare, recreation, and social participation due to stigma, poverty, inaccessible infrastructure, and lack of inclusive policies.
He noted that many children who are blind, deaf, autistic, living with albinism, cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, or mobility challenges are still denied access to quality education and opportunities that other children enjoy
“Too many of them wake up to locked school gates. Too many sit at home while their peers recite the National Anthem in classrooms. Too many are hidden because of stigma, poverty, and buildings that were never built with them in mind. That must end,” he declared.

Gufwan further stressed that under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the nation has a renewed opportunity to build a society where no child is excluded because of disability. He explained that the treatment of vulnerable citizens reflects the moral strength of any nation.
“A nation is not measured by how it treats its strongest, but by how it lifts its most vulnerable,” he said. “A child in a wheelchair whcan notot enter her classroom is not just her family’s problem but Nigeria’s loss. A deaf child who has no teacher who signs is not just silent, our future is silent.”

He emphasized that investment in inclusive education, early intervention services, assistive devices, accessible playgrounds, and disability-friendly learning environments is not charity but an investment in Nigeria’s future.
“Disability is not inability,” he affirmed.

Highlighting achievements recorded by the Commission within the last year, Chief Gufwan disclosed that the NCPWD distributed more than 50,000 assistive devices, including wheelchairs, hearing aids, white canes, and educational learning kits to children across 24 states of the federation.
He also revealed that the Commission partnered with State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs) to train over 1,200 teachers in inclusive education and sign language, while launching the “No Child Left Behind” Ward Initiative aimed at taking disability screening and support services to grassroots communities nationwide.

In addition, the Commission has continued to advocate for the enforcement of Section 18 of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018, which guarantees every child with disability the right to free and inclusive education.

While acknowledging the progress made so far, Gufwan maintained that more action is urgently required from all sectors. He called on governments at all levels to ensure that all newly constructed schools are accessible to children with disabilities and that public budgets contain dedicated provisions for special needs and inclusive education.

He also advocated for the implementation of the not-less-than five percent employment and empowerment quota for persons with disabilities, noting that empowering parents and caregivers is essential to improving the welfare of children with disabilities.

Addressing parents and communities directly, he urged families to reject stigma and embrace their children with pride and dignity.
“Your child is not a curse. Your child is a gift. Do not hide them. Bring them outEnrolll them. Let them play. The Commission stands with you,” he stated.
Gufwan also delivered a message of hope and encouragement to children with disabilities across the country.
“To children with disabilities: You are seen. You are heard. You are loved. Your wheelchair can take you to A*o Rock. Your white cane can lead a nation. Your silence can write laws. Never let anyone tell you otherwise. Nigeria needs your brilliance,” he said.
He concluded by calling on Nigerians to build an inclusive society through accessible schools, compassionate communities, and laws that protect the rights and dignity of every child.
“May all Nigerian children grow in wisdom, strength, and joy. May Nigeria grow because of you,” he added.

NCPWD reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the rights, inclusion, welfare, and empowerment of persons with disabilities in line with the provisions of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018.

Media and Publicity Unit
National Commission for Persons with Disabilities.
27th May, 2026.

NCPWD EXECUTIVE SECRETARY, CHIEF AYUBA BURKI GUFWAN FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS ON EID-EL-KABIR, CALLS FOR UNITY, SACRIFICE, AND INCLUSION OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Chief Ayuba Burki Gufwan, has warmly felicitated with the Muslim faithful across Nigeria on the occasion of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

In a goodwill message issued to mark the feast, Chief Burki urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in prayer for the unity, stability, and progress of the nation, and to continually support leaders at all levels. He stressed that the collective prayers and constructive engagement of citizens are indispensable pillars of national development.

Reflecting on the significance of the season, Chief Burki reminded the Muslim Ummah that Eid-el-Kabir is a festival widely recognised and revered for its profound emphasis on sacrifice, obedience, tolerance, justice, and charity. He called on all Nigerians, irrespective of religious affiliation, to embrace these timeless virtues, noting that they are the bedrock of peaceful coexistence and the driving force behind social cohesion and national progress.

“Eid-el-Kabir commemorates the extraordinary faith and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim. These are not merely historical lessons; they are a call to every one of us to embody selflessness, fairness, and compassion in our daily lives. When we do this, we build a nation where every citizen, including persons with disabilities, can contribute and thrive,” he said.

In the spirit of the celebration, the Executive Secretary encouraged well-to-do individuals and people of goodwill to extend a helping hand to the poor, the needy, and particularly persons with disabilities. He emphasised that true joy in the season is found in sharing and lifting up the most vulnerable in society.

“Let us remember that the celebration is only complete when we reach out to those who need our support the most. I call on everyone to include persons with disabilities in the festivities, to share with them, and to affirm their dignity. We must leave no one behind,” Chief Burki added.

He further reassured that the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities remains unwavering in its mandate to safeguard the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities, especially during festive periods when the need for inclusion and support is even more pronounced.

Chief Burki prayed for a peaceful, joyous, and successful Eid-el-Kabir celebration, and urged all Nigerians to carry the values of empathy, tolerance, and unity far beyond the festive season.

Signed: Ayuba Burki Gufwan,
Executive Secretary, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities- NCPWD, Nigeria

PRESS RELEASE

NCPWD CONVENES 3-DAY NATIONAL STAKEHOLDERS WORKSHOP ON DESIGN OF NATIONAL DISABILITY MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM

The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities has held a 3-day National Stakeholders Workshop to design a National Disability Management Information System for the nation.

The workshop, which was held at the Stratton Hotel A*okoro, between 18th and 20th May 2026, drew participants and stakeholders from all the relevant MDAs and development partners within persons with disabilities community in Nigeria.

Declaring the workshop open, the Executive Secretary, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan said the 3-day National Stakeholders Consultative Workshop on the Design of the National Disability Management Information System (NDMIS) was an effort to bring together experts to brainstorm on Nigeria’s disability data challenges in the ecosystem.

He noted that Nigeria's disability ecosystem remains fragmented, largely estimate-based, and poorly integrated into national administrative and statistical systems.

He identified the key challenges as:

1. Weak disability-disaggregated administrative data across MDAs
2. Limited adoption of internationally recognised disability measurement tools, such as the Washington Group Questions
3. Under-registration of persons with disabilities
4. Absence of a harmonised national disability database
5. Limited interoperability between sectoral data systems

His words: “These gaps mean that millions of Nigerians with disabilities remain undercounted, underserved, and excluded from development outcomes,” he said.

For him, data is life - hence the purpose of the Workshop, which he
explained was to address systemic challenges.

The Executive Secretary further said the Commission convened the workshop to design and operationalise an NDMIS that will establish a secure, standalone National Disability Database, harmonise disability-disaggregated data across MDAs, strengthen compliance monitoring of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, improve planning, budgeting, and policy advice and enhance Nigeria’s reporting under the SDGs and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Hon. Gufwan said at the end of the exercise, the workshop would have developed a National Universal Disability Data Collection Tool that is compliant with the Washington Group Questions for standardised data capture across Nigeria as well as produce a national action plan for the phased design, pilot, and operationalisation of the NDMIS

The Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr. Idowu Iwere, whose department coordinated the workshop, noted that the exercise was designed as a technical co-creation platform for MDAs, NGOs, and OPDs to harmonise systems, strengthen interoperability, and support evidence-based policymaking.

The workshop was attended by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Equal Opportunities, Hon. Abba Isah; the Head of Social Affairs Division, ECOWAS, Dr. Alves Dalmanda; and representatives from the National Bureau of Statistics, Federal Ministries of Education and Health, and other MDAs.

Goodwill messages by representatives of Sightsavers, GIZ, and CBM International pledged unwavering support and assurances of their organisations to ensure the successful collection of accurate, disaggregated data on persons with disabilities in Nigeria.

Highlights of the event included technical paper presentations, adoption of operational models, and a group photograph.

Signed:
Media and Publicity Unit
National Commission for Persons with Disabilities
22nd May, 2026

PRESS RELEASE

NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (NCPWD)

11th May 2026

NCPWD Trains Staff on Public Sector Accounting to Strengthen Financial Management

The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has successfully conducted a two-day in-house capacity building training for staff of its Accounts and Audit Departments to enhance efficiency, accountability, and compliance in public financial management.

The training held on 6th and 7th May 2026 at Life Refreshing Cafeteria, Wuse II, Abuja, was organized to update staff knowledge on current standards and procedures guiding public sector financial management and reporting, in line with ongoing Federal Government reforms.

Coordinated by the Finance and Accounts Department, the program had 21 participants in attendance.

Delivering the opening address, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Barr. Ayuba Gufwan highlighted the importance of building internal expertise to reduce over-reliance on external consultants.

“For some time, the Commission faced challenges due to limited expertise among staff, particularly in the Accounting and Audit units. Relying solely on consultants meant that knowledge was not retained within the system. Files were difficult to locate, and there was little continuity once consultants completed their assignments and left,” he said.

He described the training as a timely and valuable opportunity and urged participants to apply the knowledge gained to improve the Commission’s financial operations.

The sessions covered key aspects of the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS), which are currently being adopted by the Federal Government of Nigeria. Topics included:
- Guidelines for preparing government financial statements
- Management of public assets and liabilities
- Current reforms in public sector accounting practices

The training also featured interactive discussions to reinforce learning and address practical challenges faced by the departments.

The training provided staff with updated knowledge and practical skills to enhance compliance with statutory reporting requirements and strengthen internal financial controls.

The Director of Finance and Accounts, Mrs. Zainab Sulaiman Shehu, expressed satisfaction with the level of engagement and participation throughout the sessions.

Facilitators were drawn from the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation.

The Commission remains committed to continuous staff development as a core strategy for improving service delivery and upholding transparency and accountability in all its operations.

Signed:
Media and Publicity Unit
National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD)

PRESS RELEASE

Wednesday, 6th May, 2026

NCPWD EXECUTIVE SECRETARY, CHIEF AYUBA BURKI GUFWAN CELEBRATES SENATOR SIMON BAKO LALONG ON HIS BIRTHDAY

The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Chief Ayuba Burki Gufwan, joins family, friends, and associates of His Excellency, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, in celebrating his birthday. Chief Burki describes the former Plateau State Governor, former Minister of Labour and Productivity, and current Senator representing Plateau South as a distinguished statesman whose life exemplifies God's abundant grace.

In a congratulatory message issued on this occasion, Chief Burki reflected on Senator Lalong's remarkable trajectory, from his service as Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, through his governorship, to his current role in the Senate, noting that these milestones stand as evidence of divine favour and a life dedicated to the progress of Plateau State and Nigeria.

"What sets His Excellency apart is not merely the lofty positions he has held, but the humility, peaceful disposition, and inclusive spirit with which he has led. As Governor, he practiced the politics of inclusion, carrying everyone along regardless of political, ethnic, or religious differences. He demonstrated that true leadership is not about divisions but about building bridges," Chief Burki stated.

The Executive Secretary further lauded Senator Lalong's deep insight into governance, citing the establishment of strategic institutions including the Plateau State Contributory Health Care Management Agency (PLASCHEMA), the Plateau Peace Building Agency, the Plateau Drugs and Commodity Agency, and the Plateau Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (PICTDA), among others. He described these agencies as enduring legacies of a leader committed to peace, healthcare, technological advancement, and the overall advancement of good governance.

Chief Burki prayed for God's continued blessings upon Senator Lalong, asking for robust health, renewed strength, and many more fruitful years to contribute to nation-building and to mentor the younger generation in the ideals of selfless service.

Signed: Ayuba Burki Gufwan
Executive Secretary, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities- NCPWD, Nigeria

PRESS RELEASE

AFRICAN INCLUSIVE ECONOMIC SUMMIT PLANNING COMMITTEE SEEKS STRATEGIC COLLABORATION WITH NCPWD

Ahead of the African Inclusive Economic Summit scheduled to hold in London, the Summit’s Planning Committee paid a courtesy visit to the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) headquarters in Abuja to seek strategic collaboration.

Miss Susan Ihuoma, representing the Planning Committee, said the visit forms part of ongoing engagements with key stakeholders in preparation for the highly anticipated summit.

She explained that the Committee aims to strengthen collaboration and ensure that the interests, rights, and contributions of persons with disabilities are fully integrated into the Summit’s agenda, which focuses on promoting inclusive economic growth across Africa.

Miss Ihuoma reiterated that sustainable economic development can not be achieved without deliberate efforts to include marginalised groups, particularly Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

Discussions during the meeting centred on fostering strategic partnerships, advancing disability inclusion in economic policies, and highlighting opportunities for the empowerment, access, and participation of PWDs in Africa’s economic landscape.

The Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan Gufwan reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote equal opportunities and inclusive development for Persons with Disabilities.

Hon. Gufwan assured the Committee of NCPWD’s readiness to collaborate with the Summit organisers to ensure meaningful representation and participation of PWDs at the London event.

The African Inclusive Economic Summit will convene policymakers, development partners, private sector leaders, and advocacy groups from across Africa and beyond to discuss actionable strategies for inclusive growth and economic empowerment.

The Summit serves as a premier platform dedicated to advancing inclusive economic policies and practices across Africa, with a focus on empowering underserved and marginalised communities.

Signed:
Media and Publicity Unit
National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD)
29th April, 2026

NCPWD COMMENDS PLATEAU STATE LIBRARY BOARD FOR JOS BOOK FAIR 2026, REAFFIRMS SUPPORT FOR INCLUSIVE LITERACY

The Executive Secretary, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan has commended the Plateau State Library Board for its partnership in the Jos Book Fair 2026, describing the initiative as a vital step toward inclusive literacy and access to information for persons with disabilities.

The Jos Book Fair 2026, held between 22nd to 25th April 2026 at the National Library of Nigeria, Jos, themed “Books as Influencers: When Words Shape Worlds", featured book exhibitions, author talks, workshops, and community outreach programmes targeting students, educators, and the general public.

In a statement, Hon. Gufwan said: “A nation that reads is a nation that leads. A government that promotes reading builds the strongest foundation for every other policy formulation. The Plateau State Library Board’s collaboration with the Jos Book Fair team to promote reading and literacy aligns with the present administration’s priority on education, human capital development, and community development.”

The Executive Secretary noted that the Fair’s objectives directly support the Commission’s mandate under the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, to promote access to education and information for persons with disabilities.
His words: "We particularly commend the Board’s focus on resourcing community libraries, supporting mobile book tours, and providing books for disadvantaged students. These efforts are critical to ensuring that persons with disabilities, including children in special schools, are not left behind in Nigeria’s knowledge economy,” he said.

Hon. Gufwan reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to partnerships that advance accessible publishing, inclusive libraries, and reading formats such as braille and audio books. He added that the NCPWD will continue to work with stakeholders to ensure that literary events across Nigeria reflect the principles of inclusion and accessibility.

“There is no small partnership. Everything contributed writes a sentence in the story of someone’s future. The Commission stands ready to collaborate with the Plateau State Library Board and the Jos Book Fair organisers to ensure full participation of persons with disabilities,” he stated.

The NCPWD urged authors, publishers, educators, and public institutions to adopt inclusive practices that make books and learning accessible to all Nigerians, regardless of disability.

Signed:
Media and Publicity Unit
National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD)
26th April 2026

PRESS RELEASE

Thursday, 24th April 2026

ALDIN CONVENES ONE-DAY VALIDATION WORKSHOP ON BASELINE SURVEY, ACCESSIBILITY AUDIT, POLICY REVIEW TO ADVANCE FINANCIAL INCLUSION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

The Association of Lawyers with Disabilities in Nigeria (ALDIN) has convened a One-Day Validation Workshop on the Baseline Survey, Accessibility Audit, and Policy Review under its project “Strengthening Financial Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria.”

Held at Green Minds Hotel, Utako, Abuja, the event brought together key stakeholders from government, financial institutions, civil society, and Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) to review and refine evidence-based findings aimed at closing the financial inclusion gap for the over 35.5 million Nigerians with disabilities. The project is fully funded by the Disability Rights Fund (DRF).

Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, represented by Barr. Mariam Mekpagili, State Counsel, Compliance and Enforcement Department, NCPWD, commended ALDIN for its “foresight and commitment to advancing the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities through legal advocacy, research, and strategic engagement.”
“Financial exclusion remains one of the greatest barriers faced by the over 35.5 million Nigerians with disabilities. Without equitable access to banking, credit, insurance, and digital financial services, the goals of economic empowerment, poverty reduction, and independent living can not be achieved,” Hon. Gufwan stated.

He noted that the project “goes beyond rhetoric to generate evidence” and that the validation meeting creates vital space for stakeholders to “interrogate the findings, share insights from lived experience, and refine recommendations to ensure they are practical, inclusive, and responsive to the diverse realities of persons with disabilities across Nigeria.”

Gufwan reaffirmed that the initiative aligns directly with the mandate of the NCPWD under the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, which guarantees non-discrimination, access, and equal opportunity in all aspects of life, including economic participation. “Financial inclusion is not a privilege. It is a right and a development imperative,” he said.

Mr. Theophilus Odaudu, Program Officer for Africa, Disability Rights Fund, reaffirmed DRF’s commitment to promoting and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities in Nigeria. He urged stakeholders to translate the findings into concrete action.

“Let this be the point where policy meets practice,” Odaudu said. “We must work together to remove structural, attitudinal, and communication barriers in financial services, promote accessible digital platforms, and design products that meet the needs of persons with disabilities.”

The National President and Project Lead of ALDIN, Barr. Ikem Uchegbulam emphasised that the validation meeting was designed not only to present findings but to ensure the evidence reflects lived realities.

“This project was designed to critically examine the realities faced by persons with disabilities in accessing financial services. Despite existing policies and frameworks, many persons with disabilities continue to encounter significant barriers — physical, digital, systemic, and attitudinal — that limit their full participation in the financial system,” he said.

“Today’s meeting is about listening, validating, and strengthening the evidence we have gathered. It is about ensuring that the voices and lived experiences of persons with disabilities are accurately reflected and that the recommendations we put forward are practical, inclusive, and impactful.”

He thanked the Disability Rights Fund for its support and called for “robust discussions, constructive feedback, and actionable recommendations” to guide ALDIN’s advocacy and policy engagement.

“We believe that true financial inclusion can not be achieved without deliberate and inclusive efforts. This is why our focus is on strengthening financial inclusion of persons with disabilities in Nigeria, ensuring that no one is left behind,” he added.

The validation workshop marks a critical milestone in the project, allowing stakeholders to interrogate preliminary findings, validate data, and co-create recommendations before final dissemination and policy engagement.

Other stakeholders present also called on financial regulators, banking institutions, fintech companies, government agencies, and OPDs to collaborate in building an inclusive financial ecosystem.

Signed:
Media and Publicity Unit
National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD)
24th April 2026

PRESS RELEASE

Wednesday, 23rd April 2026

NCPWD CONVENES NATIONAL FORUM OF DISABILITY COMMISSIONS, AGENCIES TO STRENGTHEN DISABILITY GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA

The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has convened a virtual forum of Disability Commissions and Agencies across Nigeria to discuss strategic measures for strengthening disability governance in the country.

The forum held on Monday, 21st April, brought together Chairpersons, Executive Secretaries, Directors-General, and Heads of State Disability Commissions and Agencies.

The Chairman of the Forum and Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan said the forum was conceived as a strategic coordination mechanism to enable collective action, coherent advocacy, and measurable impact for persons with disabilities across all states of the Federation.

“This Forum was conceived not merely as a platform for dialogue, but as a strategic coordination mechanism, one that enables us to act collectively, speak with coherence, and deliver measurable impact for persons with disabilities across all states of the Federation,” he said.

He described the forum as both ambitious and timely, noting that the participation of state actors reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s disability governance architecture and advancing the effective implementation of the _Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018.

Deliberations at the forum focused on three key areas:
1. Strategies for collective resource mobilization;
2. Establishment of a National Disability Management Information System (NDMIS); and
3. Design and adoption of a National Reporting Template for the production of an Annual National Disability Inclusion Report.

The forum also featured updates from State Commissions, Agencies, and the NCPWD, with participants sharing success stories, challenges, and proposals for the way forward.

Hon. Gufwan urged participants to use the platform to pool ideas, leverage their networks and influence, and work collaboratively for the betterment of the disability community.

The meeting was adjourned following a motion by Mr. Ishaku Adamu, a representative from Gombe State, and was seconded by Mr. Chuks Eze, a representative from Anambra State.

Signed:
Media and Publicity Unit
National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD)
23rd April 2026

PRESS RELEASE

NCPWD, NAFOWA WALK FOR AUTISM TO MARK WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH

The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) joined the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA) today at its flagship advocacy event, “Wings of Inclusion: NAFOWA Walks for Autism,” held in commemoration of World Autism Awareness Month 2026.

Themed: “Unique and Valuable,” the event commenced with an awareness walk at the NAF Base, A*okoro, Abuja, and brought together policymakers, disability advocates, families, and stakeholders to promote awareness, early diagnosis, and inclusion for persons on the autism spectrum.

NAFOWA National President, Mrs. Ngozi Aneke stressed the need to move beyond stigma toward empathy and action:

“It is a privilege to address you today as we gather to commemorate World Autism Awareness Month, which began with World Autism Awareness Day on 2nd April. This global observance provides an important opportunity for reflection, advocacy, and collective action toward building a more inclusive society.

Today’s programme, ‘Wings of Inclusion: NAFOWA Walks for Autism,’ themed _‘Unique and Valuable,’_ reflects our shared commitment to recognising and celebrating the individuality of every child, particularly those on the autism spectrum. Each child possesses unique strengths, perspectives, and potential that deserve to be nurtured and appreciated.

Autism is not a limitation but a different way of experiencing the world. However, many individuals and families continue to face challenges stemming from misunderstanding, stigma, and delayed diagnosis.

At NAFOWA, we believe strongly in the power of community as a catalyst for meaningful change. Our awareness walk today symbolises more than just physical movement. It represents progress, solidarity, and a united voice for inclusion.

As we walk today, let us carry with us a renewed commitment to advocate, educate, and include. Let us continue to champion a society where every individual is recognised not for their limitations but for their value. Together, we can give wings to inclusion.”

Mrs. Aneke specially acknowledged the presence of the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, stating: “I would like to especially appreciate our distinguished Special Guest of Honour, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, the Executive Secretary, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, whose presence underscores the national importance of advocating for persons with disabilities. Your leadership continues to inspire meaningful change and strengthen the call for a more inclusive society.”

Delivering the Commission’s goodwill message, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, who was represented by Mr. Gurumyen Carolus, Director of General Services, NCPWD, commended NAFOWA for its sustained commitment to disability inclusion and reaffirmed the Commission’s partnership in advancing the rights of persons with autism.

“NAFOWA’s Wings of Inclusion initiative is a powerful reminder that inclusion must move from policy to practice. Autism awareness can not end with a walk. It must translate to accessible education, early intervention services, and family support systems in every community across Nigeria,” he said.

“The Commission remains resolute in implementing the _Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018_, and we call on all sectors to join us in removing barriers that prevent children with autism from reaching their full potential. Every child is indeed unique and valuable, and it is our collective duty to ensure no one is left behind.”

Highlights of the event included the presentation of an award to the Executive Secretary of NCPWD and a dance performance by children.

NCPWD and NAFOWA reaffirmed their commitment to advocacy, community outreach, and partnerships that empower families and promote the dignity of all persons with disabilities.

Signed:
Media and Publicity Unit
National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD)
23rd April 2026