EU-SDGN reaffirms commitment to empowering persons with disabilities

As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark World Braille Day, the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) Programme has reiterated its commitment to promoting inclusivity and accessibility for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

The EU-SDGN highlights the need to break barriers and create an inclusive environment where every individual, regardless of physical abilities, can participate fully in democratic processes and public life.

The Guardian reports that January 4th marks World Braille Day to promote awareness of the role of braille in empowering visually impaired individuals to exercise their human rights.
This year’s celebration, themed ‘Celebrating Accessibility and Inclusion for the Visually Impaired’, highlights the importance of creating inclusive environments that support the full participation of visually impaired people in society.

In Nigeria, the EU-SDGN said it has been actively working to address these challenges through initiatives that prioritise accessible information and communication tools, capacity-building programmes for PWDs, and policy advocacy to strengthen frameworks that protect their rights.

Jake Epelle, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of TAF Africa, whose organisation is also a member of the EU-SDGN Cohort, emphasised the importance of accessibility in the democratic process.

“Accessibility in electoral processes is not a privilege; it is a fundamental right. The EU-SDGN’s commitment to assessing and improving assistive devices is an important step towards ensuring that no one is left behind in Nigeria’s democratic journey,” he said.

Epelle noted that “The journey towards inclusivity requires consistent collaboration, innovation, and accountability. Through programmes like the EU-SDGN, we are not only advocating for change but actively driving solutions that empower Persons with Disabilities to contribute meaningfully to governance and public life.”