In a landmark initiative to foster economic inclusion, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), in partnership with Sightsavers Nigeria, hosted a transformative two-day Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Clinic for entrepreneurs with disabilities, equipping them with essential tools, knowledge, and networks to build sustainable businesses.
The event, held at Exclusive Serene Hotel, Abuja, brought together participants from various disability clusters across the country to advance economic empowerment, equity, and inclusion for entrepreneurs with disabilities.
Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, Executive Secretary of NCPWD, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to creating an enabling environment where entrepreneurs with disabilities can thrive without barriers.
“Our goal is to ensure that persons with disabilities are not just included but empowered to be self-reliant contributors to the nation’s economy,” Gufwan said.
He acknowledged the vital role of Sightsavers Nigeria in supporting the initiative and commended their dedication to improving the well-being of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
Mrs. Esther Bature, Country Advocacy Coordinator at Sightsavers Nigeria, emphasized the broader impact of inclusive economic initiatives on national development.
“SMEs are the backbone of any economy. By supporting persons with disabilities to become successful entrepreneurs, we’re not only fostering personal development but also driving job creation, innovation, and community resilience,” Bature noted.
The Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment was represented by Mrs. Ngozi Florence Onyeani, Director of Labour and Social Security, who delivered a goodwill message applauding the NCPWD and Sightsavers for organizing the clinic.
Onyeani stated that the initiative aligns with the Ministry’s mandate to promote inclusive employment and socio-economic empowerment for all Nigerians, particularly vulnerable populations like persons with disabilities.
Participants engaged in interactive sessions and received business advisory services from key government agencies, including the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), and Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria.
Other stakeholders also provided specialized support services to enhance the entrepreneurial skills of the participants during the two-day programme.
The clinic concluded with participants sharing their business experiences and highlighting challenges they face in growing their enterprises.
Stakeholders unanimously reaffirmed their commitment to working with the NCPWD to build inclusive, economically active, and empowered communities of persons with disabilities across Nigeria.