Bauchi State Launches Pioneering Disability Inclusion Working Group with UNFPA Support
In a significant move towards disability rights and inclusion, the Bauchi State Government, in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), has established a 37-member Disability Inclusion Technical Working Group (DITWG). The initiative marks a crucial step in advancing equal opportunities for persons with disabilities across the state.
The newly formed working group aims to streamline disability inclusion efforts through multi-sectoral coordination, bringing together key stakeholders and Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs). The DITWG will provide technical expertise in various areas, including inclusive education, accessible infrastructure, healthcare services, and employment practices.
Speaking at Monday’s inauguration ceremony, UNFPA Resident Representative in Nigeria, Muriel Mafiko, emphasized the historical significance of the initiative. Through her representative, Disability and Diversity Inclusion Analyst Olawunmi Laolu Akande, Mafiko highlighted that disability inclusion is fundamental to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda.
The UNFPA’s commitment extends particularly to ensuring equal access to sexual and reproductive health services for persons with disabilities, especially women, girls, and young people. The organization pledged ongoing support through evidence generation, capacity building, and technical assistance.
In a parallel development, Rt Hon Abubakar Y Sulaiman, Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, announced through his representative Hon Habibu Umar that legislation to establish a Commission for Persons with Disability has progressed to its second reading, demonstrating the state’s legislative commitment to disability rights.
Mrs Brisca Jerome Aaron, Executive Chairperson of the Bauchi State Agency for People with Disability, outlined the agency’s progress in reviewing state disability laws and emphasized Governor Sen Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed’s role in establishing the agency. She acknowledged UNFPA’s crucial support in enabling persons with disabilities to participate in governance.
The establishment of the DITWG represents a collaborative effort between government bodies, international organizations, and civil society to create a more inclusive society in Bauchi State. This initiative aligns with international standards and best practices while addressing local needs and challenges faced by persons with disabilities.
The working group’s formation signals a shift from policy commitments to practical action in mainstreaming disability inclusion across all development and humanitarian initiatives in Bauchi State, with a focus on sustainable, long-term impact.
