ABUJA (SUNDIATA POST)- Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) have been appointed as legislative interns to the National Assembly, marking a significant step towards inclusivity in governance.
This initiative, powered by The Albino Foundation (TAF) Africa and supported by the European Union’s European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EUSGDN) Programme, aimed to enhance democratic representation and empowerment of PWDs within Nigeria’s legislative process.
Programme Manager Mr Adeolu Kilanko, at a training and induction ceremony in Abuja on Thursday, stated that the internship programme sought to ensure legislators integrate disability inclusion into the legislative process.
“We will train existing PWD advocates and deploy them to National Assembly committees for six months, hoping that laws and motions from these committees will positively impact PWDs.”
Mr Ben Ekeyi, a legislative analyst, commended the initiative, highlighting its potential to promote disability awareness and equal rights.
He noted that PWDs face significant challenges in gaining recognition and respect in leadership spaces but emphasised that programmes like this showcased their potential.
Ekeyi urged interns to actively engage in committee activities, where meaningful contributions could be made.
Ms Aver Akighir, a disability advocate and intern, expressed enthusiasm for the programme, citing its potential to reshape understanding of disability within legislative practices.
“Policies meant to be inclusive often fall short. My goal is to champion causes that improve inclusion and representation.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the training aims to equip interns with essential skills and knowledge to navigate legislative processes, advocate for disability-inclusive policies, and promote inclusive democracy.
NAN also reports that the initiative aligns with global efforts to promote disability rights, as outlined in the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
The convention emphasises the importance of accessibility, equal opportunities, and participation in public life for PWDs.
Nigeria’s move towards inclusivity in governance is a step in the right direction, ensuring that PWDs have a voice in shaping the country’s future.(NAN)
