Bauchi Stakeholders Call for Full Implementation of Disability Rights Act
Abubakar Hardawa
Participants at a one-day meeting organized by the Sharing Education and Learning for Life (SELL) Foundation have urged the full implementation of the *Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018* in Bauchi State.
The event, which brought together key stakeholders, also highlighted the need for designated disability desk officers across all state Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to improve accessibility for persons with special needs.
The SELL Foundation—an initiative of the St. Patrick Missionary Society in West Africa—focuses on peacebuilding and advocacy for vulnerable groups in the North East and Plateau State.
Malam Haruna Saidu Pali, Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) in Bauchi, raised concerns over the persistent marginalization and exclusion faced by persons with disabilities.
Supporting the call for action, Bauchi State NUJ Chairman Comrade Umar Saidu and BASNEC Chairman, Mr. Jinjiri Garba emphasized the importance of stakeholder collaboration and a comprehensive approach to addressing these challenges.
In a presentation titled *”Overview of Existing Legal Frameworks and Practices Affecting Persons with Disabilities in Bauchi State,”* Mr. Mainas Ayuba, Chairman of the Bauchi State Network of Disability Forum, criticized the lack of accessibility provisions in public and private buildings.
He noted that the 2018 Act mandates penalties for discrimination against persons with disabilities.
Programme Manager Mr. Beji Benjamin Jibe stated that the event, themed “Inclusive Services for Persons with Disabilities”, aimed to promote policy dialogue, compliance, and awareness.
He urged participants to advocate for inclusive infrastructure to ensure persons with disabilities feel valued in society.
The meeting featured panel discussions on challenges and opportunities in disability inclusion, with representatives from the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, JONAPWD, Ministries of Education and Justice, BASAME, RUWASSA, financial institutions, faith-based organizations, and the media.
