Nigeria has initiated steps to operationalise the African Disability Protocol (ADP), following a roundtable held in Abuja aimed at transitioning from policy adoption to practical implementation.

The event, jointly convened by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), and The Ability Life Initiative (TALI), outlined a framework to incorporate the ADP into existing national legislation and policy structures.

The discussions centred on aligning the 2018 Disability Act with the provisions of the ADP, creating legislation at the state level, establishing a Disability Rights Trust Fund, and expanding national public awareness efforts.

Government bodies, civil society organisations, and international partners were represented, including officials from the ministries of labour, women’s affairs, and presidential offices on special needs.

During the panel session, participants identified shortcomings in Nigeria’s current approach to disability rights. These included limited interpreter services in healthcare settings and inadequate enforcement of disability policies across states.

Speaking at the event, Esther Bature, who leads advocacy for Sightsavers Nigeria, suggested that while existing laws provide a framework, their effectiveness depends on integration with the ADP. She likened the current legislation to a vehicle lacking fuel, describing the protocol as essential to forward movement.

Representatives from implementing organisations urged stakeholders to maintain momentum and called for an inclusive implementation committee to monitor progress. TALI co-founders Prada Uzodimma and Oprah Uzodimma-Ohaeri stressed that government agencies, organisations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), and development institutions should be actively involved in shaping and overseeing the strategy.

Tony Ojukwu, Executive Secretary of the NHRC, commented on the significance of the ADP, referring to it as a benchmark for Nigeria’s commitment to human rights. He said the next step requires moving beyond conversation and into concrete action.