The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has strengthened its engagement with the African Union Commission following a strategic meeting held in Abuja on Thursday, 20 November 2025. Senior representatives of both bodies met to advance work on disability inclusion, harmonised continental policies and the domestication of the African Disability Protocol.
The African Union team, led by Olubusayo Akinola, held discussions with NCPWD leadership on accessibility standards, enforcement strategies, data systems, and support frameworks for women and girls with disabilities. They also explored opportunities for cross-border learning among African countries.
NCPWD officials outlined the Commission’s priorities, which include the implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act of 2018, full compliance with the 5 percent employment quota across public and private institutions, and continued monitoring of accessibility requirements nationwide. They noted recent progress with the inclusion of the employment quota in the Public Service Rules and ongoing work with federal establishments to ensure adherence.
The African Union delegation described Nigeria as a strong regional example in disability legislation and institution building. They noted that Nigeria’s experience continues to guide other countries seeking to adopt and implement the African Disability Protocol.
Directors of the Commission presented updates on programmes covering inclusive employment, private sector partnerships, accessibility audits, national data coordination and support for vulnerable groups. They also highlighted the importance of wider regional cooperation and stronger institutional capacities across Africa.
Both sides emphasised the need for greater visibility for issues affecting women and girls with disabilities, noting that these concerns remain underrepresented in many policy discussions across the continent. The African Union expressed readiness to work with NCPWD in bringing these matters into broader gender and human rights frameworks.
The meeting concluded with a joint commitment to deepen cooperation in policy development, accessibility reforms, institutional strengthening and regional knowledge sharing. NCPWD also stated its interest in hosting a continental gathering of disability agencies, aimed at positioning Nigeria as a key hub for advancing disability inclusion in Africa.
