Bauchi Gov't, UNFPA Inaugurates Disability Inclusion Technical Working Group
By Khalid Idris Doya
The Bauchi state government, through the State Agency for People with Disability, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), has inaugurated a 37-member Bauchi State Disability Inclusion Technical Working Group (DITWG) to promote inclusive governance and ensure persons with disabilities (PWDs) are fully integrated into the state's development process.
The inauguration marks a major step towards advancing coordination, collaboration, and inclusion across sectors in line with global best practices and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Speaking during the inauguration yesterday, UNFPA resident representative in Nigeria, Ms. Muriel Mafiko, described the inauguration as a significant milestone in the collective resolve to advance inclusion, equity, and human rights for persons with disabilities.
Represented by Disability and Diversity Inclusion Analyst, Olawunmi Laolu Akande, Mafiko noted that disability inclusion is not a matter of charity, but "a matter of human rights, development, and justice."
She emphasised that the establishment of the technical working group is "Timely and essential in creating a platform for coordination, collaboration, and shared accountability to make disability inclusion a lived reality."
Mafiko reaffirmed UNFPA's commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities, especially women, girls, and young people have equal access to sexual and reproductive health, education, and decision-making opportunities.
"UNFPA stands ready to support this Working Group through evidence generation, capacity building, inclusive programming, and technical assistance," she assured.
For his part, Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Y. Sulaiman, announced that a bill to establish a commission for persons with disabilities has passed second reading in the Assembly.
Represented by Hon. Habibu Umar, the Speaker reaffirmed the Assembly's determination to safeguard the rights of PWDs, stressing that the Bala Mohammed-led administration remains inclusive-minded and committed to fair governance.
In her opening remarks, Executive Chairperson of the Bauchi State Agency for People with Disability, Mrs. Brisca Jerome Aaron, reaffirmed the government's commitment to inclusive governance and equity for all citizens.
She highlighted the administration's efforts in reviewing the state's disability law to address emerging issues and acknowledged the pivotal role of Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, who signed the law establishing the Agency.
"The State Government will continue to support individuals with special needs, ensuring dignity, equality, and opportunity for all citizens," she stated.
Aaron also commended UNFPA for its continuous partnership and support, particularly in ensuring that persons with disabilities have a voice in governance.
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