Nigeria launches National Framework to boost employment for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)
Nigeria has launched a National Framework on Access to Work for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), aimed at promoting equal employment opportunities for qualified individuals with disabilities.
Speaking at the launch event in Lagos, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Chief Ayuba Gufwan, stated that the framework would support the full implementation of relevant provisions of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, through a collaborative approach.
A report by the NCPWD indicates that only 2% of Nigeria’s over 35 million persons with disabilities have access to formal employment, despite being qualified for various job opportunities.
Chief Gufwan highlighted that many private sector employers struggle to accommodate PWDs due to the cost of assistive devices and technologies. Additionally, he noted a lack of awareness and technical knowledge among employers regarding workplace accessibility and reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities.
“The framework seeks to end workplace discrimination against PWDs and recommends that all employers reserve at least 5% of job placements for qualified individuals with disabilities,” Gufwan stated.
As part of efforts to kickstart the framework’s implementation, Chief Gufwan announced a ₦150 million donation, which will be used to procure assistive devices and technologies to support accessibility in the workplace.
Dr. Joy Shuaibu, Country Director of Sightsavers Nigeria, emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government, private sector, and stakeholders to ensure that persons with disabilities have access to employment and can contribute meaningfully to society.
Similarly, George Dominic Anwayi, Assistant Program Manager at TAF Africa, said the framework would help increase employment opportunities for PWDs in the private sector.
The event was attended by over 200 persons with disabilities, marking a significant milestone as Nigeria becomes the first African country to champion an Access to Work Scheme of this kind.
Reporting by Mary Fatile; Editing by Jennifer Ogor and Daniel Adejo