The Centre for Inclusive Development, a knowledge reform organization dedicated to promoting inclusive growth and advancing solutions through innovative models with support from the Disability Rights Fund, recently conducted a series of digital accessibility training aimed at improving inclusion for persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
The three days training, which took place from April 28 to 30, 2026, was held under the Enhancing Digital Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria project.
The training brought together representatives of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), IT professionals, and technology developers. Participants were equipped with skills in digital accessibility auditing, advocacy, and inclusive design.
The organisers noted that for millions of Nigerians with disabilities, the digital space remains largely inaccessible. They highlighted that websites without text alternatives exclude blind users, while videos without captions and audio lacking transcripts shut out deaf users.
Other barriers identified include platforms that require mouse navigation, making them difficult for persons with motor disabilities, and poorly designed applications, particularly in banking and fintech, that fail to consider accessibility needs. Complex language on e-registration platforms, including those of the Independent National Electoral Commission, was also cited as a challenge for users with cognitive disabilities.
CID stressed that these barriers limit access to public services, economic opportunities, and civic participation, even though they can be addressed through better design practices and stronger commitment to inclusion.
The organisation pointed to Nigeria’s legal framework, including the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018, which mandates accessibility in both public and private sectors. It also referenced the National Information Technology Development Agency roadmap, which emphasizes inclusive digital infrastructure
Participants were introduced to international standards such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 and trained on how to assess websites using professional tools and assistive technologies, including screen readers and keyboard navigation systems.
Speaking at the training, Programme Manager of the project at CID, Isaiah Ude, said the initiative is designed to empower disability groups with practical skills. “Beyond awareness, we want these organizations to have the technical capacity, ability to audit digital platforms, identify errors, and use that evidence to push for change,” he said.
“We expect OPDs to lead accessibility audits and drive digital accessibility advocacy in their own right,” Ude added, emphasizing the role of disability groups in promoting inclusive systems.
A separate session for developers and IT professionals focused on integrating accessibility into the design and development process. Participants were taught how different disabilities affect web use and how to build platforms that accommodate diverse needs.
Ude stressed the importance of inclusive growth in Nigeria’s expanding digital ecosystem. “Nigeria’s digital ecosystem is growing fast, and that is a good thing. But growth that leaves persons with disabilities behind is not progress but exclusion,” he said.
Digital accessibility expert and lead trainer, David Owumi, highlighted the broader implications of inclusion. “Disability inclusion is about the environment and not the persons living with temporary or permanent impairments. We have a responsibility to create channels that guarantee access for all, online and offline,” he said.
Participants, including representatives from advocacy groups and the tech sector, pledged to apply the knowledge gained. Otono Oshioriamhe of Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiatives said, “If a person cannot access your website, your service is not truly inclusive.”
Similarly, Michael Junior Agom emphasized the need for early integration of accessibility. “Accessibility isn’t a feature you add later. It’s part of the foundation,” he said, adding that the training has encouraged more professionals to build systems that work for everyone.
