Disability commission unveils national accessibility certificates to promote inclusion for PWDs
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has officially launched a set of compliance certificates aimed at enforcing the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018. The unveiling ceremony, held at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja yesterday, marked what officials described as a “significant milestone” in Nigeria’s journey toward inclusivity. Speaking at the […]
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has officially launched a set of compliance certificates aimed at enforcing the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018.
The unveiling ceremony, held at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja yesterday, marked what officials described as a “significant milestone” in Nigeria’s journey toward inclusivity.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Ayuba Burki Gufwan, said the certificates—namely the National Accessibility Compliance Certificate, National Disability Compliance Certificate, and Provisional Accessibility Compliance Certificate—would serve as tools to promote accountability and foster inclusion across sectors.
“These certificates represent a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards inclusivity and accessibility for persons with disabilities,” Gufwan said.
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He explained that the certificates are backed by the National Accessibility Regulations 2023, a subsidiary legislation under the Disability Act 2018. According to him, Regulation 168 (3) mandates the Commission to develop guidelines for implementation, which will enable effective enforcement and generate revenue for both the Commission and the Federal Government.
“The guidelines have been developed and are awaiting gazette publication and codification by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation,” he said.
Gufwan noted that the certification process would be centralized and personally signed by the Executive Secretary to guard against counterfeiting.
He added that the issuance and processing of third-party licensees are fully provided for in the guidelines.
On the importance of accessibility, he said, “Accessibility is a fundamental human right, essential for persons with disabilities to participate fully in society.”
He outlined the key benefits of the certificates, which include promoting compliance with accessibility standards, enhancing accountability among organizations, and recognizing those that prioritize inclusive practices.
The event was attended by representatives from the Office of the Head of Service, the House Committee on Disability Matters, and other key stakeholders in the disability rights space.