Significant Action on the Disability bill, Benue state.
ACTION STORY
On the 11th of November 2024, The Governor of Benue state Hyacinth Alia made a commitment to the swift passage of the Disability Bill marks a turning point for disability rights in the region. This bill, once passed, will address long-standing challenges faced by persons with disabilities (PWDs) in accessing education, employment, and public infrastructure. Advocacy groups such as Inclusive Friends Association (IFA) and Disability Rights Advocacy Center (DRAC) have played pivotal roles through persistent lobbying, awareness campaigns, and stakeholder engagement.Governor Alia has demonstrated a strong commitment to inclusion by endorsing the bill and initiating its transmission to the State House of Assembly as an executive bill. His administration has also taken practical steps, such as appointing a Special Assistant on Disability Matters and a sign language interpreter, to amplify the voices of PWDs in governance.The bill’s passage will likely bring transformative benefits, including improved access to education, equitable employment opportunities, and disability-friendly public facilities. Advocacy groups are hopeful that it will set a benchmark for other states to emulate, ultimately promoting inclusion and empowering PWDs to participate fully in society.