Marks International Day Of Persons With Disabilities With Policy Initiatives
By Vincess Okushi
The Federal Government has unveiled a transformative agenda to promote equal access to healthcare for persons with disabilities, reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity and equity in healthcare delivery.
Speaking at an event to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in Abuja, Dr. Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, emphasized the administration’s dedication to integrating persons with disabilities into the national healthcare framework.
Represented by Dr. John Ovuoraye, Director of the Gender, Adolescent, School Health, and Elderly Division in the Ministry, Dr. Salako addressed the event’s theme: “Leadership of Persons with Disabilities: A Pathway to an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.
Disability inclusion in achieving Universal Health Coverage is a key priority for this administration. Dr. Salako affirmed.
The Minister highlighted ongoing efforts to implement the National Policy on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights of Persons with Disabilities, an initiative that seeks to address the unique health needs of women and girls with disabilities.
He also noted how these policies align with the Ministerial Blueprint, the Sector-Wide Approach, and the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, designed to ensure equitable and quality healthcare access for every Nigerian.
We are committed to sustaining investments in quality healthcare for all. He declared.
At the event, Daju Kachollom, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, represented by Suleiman Iki, reaffirmed the government’s alignment with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
This plan reflects a universal belief: everyone deserves to be treated equally. We are committed to leaving no one behind. she said.
On his part, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), also urged collective efforts to dismantle systemic barriers that hinder the full participation of persons with disabilities in society.
Together, we can create a future where disability is not a limitation but a platform for leadership and innovation. he said.
With its renewed focus on disability-inclusive healthcare, the Federal Government aims to set a new standard for equity and sustainability in Nigeria’s health sector. By championing policies that prioritize universal health coverage, aimed at not only addressing immediate healthcare gaps but also laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and sustainable future for all Nigerians.
