The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) and the Africa Inclusive Economy Summit have announced a strategic partnership to enhance job opportunities and educational access for Nigeria’s 35.5 million persons with disabilities (PWDs).
NCPWD reaffirmed its commitment to disability-inclusive development by collaborating with international partners to expand opportunities for millions of Nigerians living with disabilities.
This pledge was made by the Commission’s Executive Secretary, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, during a meeting with representatives of the Africa Inclusive Economy Summit at the NCPWD headquarters in Abuja. The delegation was led by the Project Coordinator of the Summit, Dr. Bunmi Kole Dawodu.
The Africa Inclusive Economy Summit is an international initiative established by Nigerian-born British innovator His Grace Alexander. The Summit is designed to connect innovators, entrepreneurs, and governments across Africa with global opportunities aimed at reducing exclusion and promoting economic empowerment for persons with disabilities.
Speaking during the meeting, Hon. Gufwan stressed the urgent need for partnerships that can break barriers and foster equal opportunities.
“The world is now a global village. Whether the Summit holds in London, Nigeria, or elsewhere, the most important outcome is the empowerment of persons with disabilities and their full integration into national and continental development. Nigeria, with the largest disability population in Africa, must play a pivotal role in shaping this conversation,” he said.
He further lamented that less than 3% of Nigerians with disabilities are engaged in gainful employment, a situation he described as alarming. “Economic empowerment is key. Political rights mean little without economic inclusion. Opportunities like this Summit will provide a platform for our people to showcase their skills, innovations, and resilience. We are committed to partnering with credible organizations to rewrite the story of disability in Nigeria,” Gufwan added.
In his remarks, Dr. Bunmi Kole Dawodu explained that the Africa Inclusive Economy Summit is self-sponsored and powered by advocates across Africa and the UK. He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s participation in the 2026 edition scheduled to take place in London.
“Nigeria remains a leading light in disability inclusion in Africa. This Summit is designed to connect innovators and creators with opportunities that can transform lives. We are delighted that the Commission has assured us of its full support, and we look forward to showcasing Nigerian innovators and leaders at the global stage,” he said.
The discussions ended with both parties agreeing to begin concrete steps toward collaboration, including nominating Nigerian innovators with disabilities for the London Summit and exploring the potential of hosting future editions in Nigeria or other African nations.
Reiterating its readiness to work with all stakeholders, the NCPWD emphasized that partnerships such as this are essential in dismantling barriers, strengthening empowerment, and ensuring that persons with disabilities are not left behind in Nigeria’s development journey.