The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has unveiled three landmark compliance certificates to drive the full implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2023, and the Persons with Disabilities (Accessibility) Regulations, 2023.
The certificates, known as the National Accessibility Compliance Certificate, the National Disability Compliance Certificate, and the Provisional Accessibility Compliance Certificate, are aimed at advancing accessibility and inclusion for more than 35.5 million Nigerians with disabilities.
According to the commission, the certificates are designed to promote compliance with national accessibility standards, enhance accountability by recognizing organizations that meet inclusion benchmarks, and foster a culture of inclusion, ensuring equal access to goods, services, and opportunities.
At the official unveiling ceremony, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, described the initiative as a concrete step toward enforcing the Disability Act and Accessibility Regulations, stressing that accessibility is not a privilege but a fundamental human right.
“Accessibility is essential for persons with disabilities to participate fully in every aspect of life. These certificates will encourage compliance with standards, promote accountability, and celebrate organizations that prioritize inclusion. Together, we are building a Nigeria where no one is left behind,” he said.
The Commission has developed detailed guidelines for the certificates covering training, monitoring, and stakeholder participation, which are awaiting gazette publication and codification by the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation.
Beyond recognition, the initiative is also expected to generate revenue for both the Commission and the Federal Government, providing a sustainable mechanism for funding disability inclusion initiatives nationwide.
Speaking at the event, the Director of Compliance and Enforcement, Barr. Ikem Uchegbulam, said the unveiling reaffirmed a collective dedication to breaking down physical, social, and systemic barriers that hinder the progress of persons with disabilities. Similarly, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Didi Walson-Jack, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Patience Oyekwale, reiterated that disability inclusion is a right that all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies must comply with, while calling for stronger implementation across all sectors.
“Today, we reaffirm our collective dedication to breaking down the physical, social, and systemic barriers that have hindered the progress of persons with disabilities. It is imperative that we cultivate an environment where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute to Nigeria’s development,” Uchegbulam added.
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isah, commended Hon. Gufwan and the Commission for what he described as a milestone achievement that would usher in the full implementation of the Act.
The highlight of the event was the formal unveiling of the certificates by Mrs. Oyekwale on behalf of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, after which dignitaries present praised the Commission for this remarkable achievement and expressed optimism that the vision of an inclusive Nigeria would soon become a reality.