Stakeholders in the disability community have called for the establishment of a ministry or commission dedicated to promoting inclusiveness and integration for persons with disabilities.

At the 2025 National Handicapped Youth Day Rally in Lagos, they urged that such a body be led by individuals with disabilities, emphasising their firsthand understanding of the challenges and their readiness to serve with honesty and impact.

President of the Association for Handicapped Persons Welfare (AHPW), Mr Princewill David, led the call, stressing the need for structural change to alleviate the struggles faced by the disabled community. He noted that the creation of a dedicated ministry or commission is essential to achieving meaningful progress.

David appealed to government bodies and development partners to consider the long-term benefits of inclusive policies and prioritise appointing reputable individuals who can deliver impactful service.

Highlighting the association’s achievements, he said, “We have empowered over 5,000 persons with disabilities since 1992 through awards, medical outreaches, scholarships, job placements, and skill development.”

He further sought public and private support to complete ongoing projects, including boreholes, vehicles, and office renovations at their Fadeyi, Lagos secretariat. “We need funds and materials to facilitate the progress of our association’s activities,” he added.

David expressed gratitude for the grace to organise the event amidst Nigeria’s economic and political challenges and commended the Salvation Army Igbobi Corps for their unwavering support.

This year’s rally, hosted by the Salvation Army Igbobi Corps, had the theme ‘Unity,’ which has been the organisation’s focus since January.

Delivering the keynote exhortation, Pastor Chidi Nwankwo, National Coordinator of the Association, drew from Acts 2:40–46 to highlight the biblical foundation of unity. He described unity as “the act of working together in one accord to achieve successful goals, exploits, and accomplishments.”