The Centre for Infrastructural and Technological Advancement for the Blind (CITAB) has urged the National Assembly to amend the Disability Law of 2019. The group called for tougher sanctions on public officers who fail to comply with the law.

According to CITAB, lack of explicit penalties for negligent government officials may hinder effective implementation of the law. “Without clear accountability, there is a risk that progress will be slow,” the group stated.

CITAB’s Executive Director, Jolomi Fenemigho, emphasised the need for stricter enforcement of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2019. He noted that this would provide long-overdue relief to individuals with disabilities in Nigeria.

Fenemigho also called on the Federal Government to break the cycle of inaction and fully implement the disability law. He criticised the government’s efforts as “motion without movement,” emphasising the need for tangible progress.

The CITAB boss urged the 10th National Assembly to play a crucial role in overseeing the implementation of the disability law. He advocated monthly reports to track progress and ensure accountability.

Fenemigho called on the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria to take a proactive stance in promoting accessibility and inclusivity in public infrastructure and services.

Ultimately, CITAB is urging all disability groups in Nigeria to unite and push for meaningful change. As Fenemigho noted, “no single group can tackle the multifaceted challenges obstructing total inclusion of the disabled in Nigeria.”