Disability rights advocacy gains momentum in Kaduna

An NGO, The BEACON of Transformative and Inclusive Development Centre, has partnered with the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) and the Kaduna State Disability Affairs Board.

Their goal is to promote inclusion and the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in the state.

During a joint courtesy visit to the board on Monday in Kaduna, Abigail Olatunde, Executive Director of The BEACON, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to inclusive development.

She stressed the importance of quality education for PwDs.

Olatunde highlighted their dedication to advocating for disability rights and supporting marginalised and vulnerable groups in the state.

She noted that The BEACON has begun training board members in sign language. Plans are also in place to train stakeholders on communication with deaf individuals and other PwDs.

The partnership between The BEACON, FIDA, and the Board marks a significant step towards advancing inclusion and the rights of PWDs in Kaduna State.

Olatunde stated that the visit aimed to reaffirm the existing partnership between The BEACON and the Board. It also sought to introduce FIDA’s role in legal advocacy.

She added that discussions were held on ways to enhance legal and social protections for PwDs. Key challenges and opportunities for disability rights and justice were also explored.

Olatunde stressed the need to identify areas where legal support, policy advocacy, and disability-focused interventions could be strengthened for greater impact.