Advocates for disability rights in Enugu State have taken decisive action to urge the state government to address disability issues with the necessary urgency and compassion.

In a recent memo to Governor Ndubuisi Mbah, the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), called for the establishment of a Disability Rights Commission, emphasizing the importance of immediate action.

According to the chairman, Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Enugu state chapter, Comrade Onyebuchi Mbah, the effort so far has been in collaboration with Southern Nigeria Regional Commonwealth of Nations office, Voice of Disability Initiative (VDI), Traditional Rulers Council, the media and other stakeholders in the state.

“This step represents a significant push for the advancement of disability rights in Enugu State, as the advocates seek to bring attention to the needs and concerns of persons with disabilities in the state.

Below is a copy of the memo to His Excellecy, the Executive Governor of Enugu state.

“THE NEED TO ESTABLISH ENUGU STATE DISABILITY RIGHTS COMMISSION

We, the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Traditional Rulers Council, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the media, along with other civil society groups, stakeholders, and development partners in Enugu State, passionately appeal to the Executive Governor (Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah) to as a matter of empathy and compassion, establish the Enugu State Disability Rights Commission by constituting the board as the Law provides for a smooth kickoff.

This commission is crucial for the implementation of the 2023 Enugu State Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Prohibition Law. Over 22 States in Nigeria are currently enjoying this provision with the establishment and smooth operation of their commission, including Abia and Anambra in South East, moving disability issues from charity base to a right-based approach and promoting sustainable development goal of the United Nations.

Background:
The Enugu State House of Assembly passed the Disability Rights bill into law on Tues 4th April, and it was assented to by the immediate past Governor on Thursday 18th May, 2023. This milestone legislation aims to eliminate discrimination, equalize opportunities, and establish the disability rights commission. However, the gazetting of the Law and the commission’s setup is still pending, hindering the full implementation of the law and the realization of its benefits for persons with disabilities and the State at large.

Rationale:
The establishment of the Enugu State Disability Rights Commission is vital for:

• Overseeing the implementation of the Disability Rights Law, mainstreaming policies and programs, promoting inclusive development projects

The disability commission can contribute to revenue generation for Enugu State government, increasing participation in the workforce by prohibiting discrimination and ensuring access to employment opportunities, paying taxes and contributing to the economy.

Promotes access to education and skills development,, leading to a more skilled workforce, increased productivity, and higher tax revenues.

Entrepreneurship and business opportunities: Persons with disabilities can start businesses, create jobs, and generate revenue, contributing to GDP growth.

Reduced poverty and social welfare costs: Inclusive education and employment can reduce poverty among persons with disabilities, decreasing the burden on social welfare programs of the government.

Increased access to healthcare by reducing healthcare costs in the long run and increasing productivity through the State’s health insurance scheme.

Tourism and hospitality industry growth: Accessible infrastructure and services can attract tourists with disabilities, generating revenue and promoting economic growth.

Foreign investment, donors and partnerships: the State’s commitment to disability inclusion can attract international investments, grants and partnerships, boosting economic development.

Disability-focused innovation and technology: The Law can spur innovation in assistive technologies, creating new business opportunities and revenue streams and contributing to the $30 billion economic realization of this administration

• Structuring programs, building data, and managing budgets to improve the welfare of persons with disabilities
  Fines and Penalties: The Act imposes fines and penalties on individuals and organizations that default on its provisions, such as non-compliance with accessibility standards or discrimination against persons with disabilities. These fines can contribute to government revenue.

Compliance Fees: The Act may require organizations to pay compliance fees to ensure adherence to its provisions, generating revenue for the government.

Licensing and Certification: The Act may establish a licensing and certification framework for organizations to operate inclusively, generating revenue through licensing fees.

Furthermore: Coordinating affairs of persons with disabilities

• Enhancing decision-making inclusivity and participation by persons with disabilities
• Increasing access to public buildings and promoting safety
  Ensuring Justice, freedom of expression, and access to information
• Reducing discrimination and harmful treatment

Implementation of the law through the commission will significantly improve the standard of living through mainstream policies, promote sustainable development goals and universally designed principle of inclusion, accessibility and participation for all in Enugu State .

We beseech the Enugu State Government to establish the Disability Rights Commission, ensuring that persons with disabilities can fully exercise their rights and participate in the development of our dear State.

Attached is the all important legal document for your perusal and consideration Sir.

Long live Enugu State. Long live Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah. Indeed, our tomorrow is here.”