The Irede Foundation, in partnership with the Disability Rights Fund (DRF), has sought to collaborate with the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) to reshape workplace culture and drive disability inclusion.

During a visit to NECA, the recruitment toolkit was unveiled, which they described as a practical guide and framework for inclusive hiring and accessibility, for understanding the structural considerations for employing persons with disabilities.

Executive Director of The Irede Foundation, Crystal Chigbu, while presenting the toolkit to NECA, said the initiative using the three ‘Es’ – endorse, employ and extend – provides internship placements for persons with disabilities and support to create a connection with other organisations within NECA’s network.

She stated that the initiative aligned with SDG 8 (Decent Work) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), reiterating that the foundation was committed to ensuring People with Disabilities (PWDs) could live fulfilled lives without limitations.

Senior Communications Associate, Oluwabusayomi Adebayo, who provided an overview of DEEP – Disability Empowerment and Employability Project – said it seeks to reduce workplace stigma and increase opportunities for persons with disabilities.

He emphasised the success of DEEP even as he announced plans to scale up the programme in July to involve broader participation from the public, private, and civil society sectors.

He added that the foundation’s mission was empowering child amputees while also focusing on systemic advocacy for persons with disabilities. Commending the team for the visit, Adenike Adebayo-Ajala affirmed NECA’s continued commitment to disability inclusion, citing past collaborations with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the association’s ongoing assessments for accessibility improvement.