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Neptune Prime, Wole Soyinka Centre advocate for disability rights in Maiduguri (Pictures & Video)

October 24, 2024

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Neptune Prime, Wole Soyinka Centre advocate for disability rights in Maiduguri (Pictures & Video)

In a powerful initiative aimed at promoting the rights and inclusion of People with Disabilities (PWD), Neptune Prime Media House, in collaboration with the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ), hosted a 2-day workshop at Armani Event World, Maiduguri. Themed “Giving Strong Voice to PWD,” the workshop, seeks to highlight the unique challenges faced by PWDs while promoting their rights, dignity, and potential contributions to society.

The workshop features thought-provoking sessions led by key advocates and experts in the field of disability rights and community inclusion. Hassana Mohammed Bunu, a renowned advocate for PWDs, opened the workshop with her presentation on “The Importance and Privileges of PWD in Society.” She stressed the need for a collective societal shift in attitudes towards PWDs, advocating for policies that not only protect their rights but also ensure that they are afforded equal opportunities in all sectors, from education to employment.

“This workshop is a platform to challenge outdated perceptions and strengthen the voice of PWDs,” said Bunu. “By ensuring that PWDs have a seat at the table, we will be one step closer to an inclusive society.”

Abubakar Yakubu, another prominent speaker, took on the issue of societal attitudes in his presentation titled “The Negative Effects of Stigmatisation of PWD in Nigerian Communities.” He emphasized that stigmatisation remains one of the most significant barriers preventing PWDs from integrating into mainstream society. He urged community leaders and policymakers to combat stigma through awareness campaigns and inclusive policies.

“Stigmatisation isolates and marginalise PWDs, often rendering them invisible in their communities,” said Yakubu. “We need to create environments that foster inclusion, where differences are embraced, and the full potential of every individual is recognised .”

In an equally compelling session, Mrs. Habiba Ibrahim, an expert on economic inclusion, delivered a presentation on “The Economic Contributions of PWD to National Development.” She challenged the notion that PWDs are solely dependent on society, underscoring their potential to contribute to national development when provided with the necessary tools and resources.

Mrs. Ibrahim highlighted how economic empowerment of PWDs could unlock significant growth opportunities for communities and the nation at large.

“When we invest in the talents and skills of PWDs, we are not just enhancing their quality of life, but also promoting national economic growth,” Ibrahim stated. “There is an urgent need for targeted interventions to provide accessible education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship opportunities for PWDs.”

The workshop, which brings together policymakers, advocates, community leaders, and students, aims to spark meaningful dialogue on how to better integrate PWDs into every aspect of Nigerian life. The overarching goal is to create a society where the rights and potential of PWDs are recognised and championed, not just by advocacy groups but by all sectors of society.

See pictures & video below: