The Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, in collaboration with the World Bank, is taking active steps to create a more inclusive and accessible environment for Persons with Disabilities, PwDs, across Abuja.
This initiative aims to ensure equitable participation in social, economic, and civic life through policy reform and infrastructural development.
According to the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, the partnership reflects President Bola Tinubu’s broader commitment to inclusivity under the Renewed Hope Agenda. The minister noted that accessible public spaces, disability-friendly transport systems, and employment opportunities are at the core of the plan.
“We are not just building structures; we are building a system that recognizes and values the rights and dignity of every individual, including persons with disabilities,” Mahmoud said during a press briefing.
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The World Bank is providing technical support and advisory expertise to align FCTA’s infrastructure projects with global standards on accessibility and inclusion. This includes audits of public buildings, integration of universal design principles, and training for staff in disability-sensitive practices.
The minister emphasized that policies must go beyond compliance to foster empowerment. “Inclusion is not charity. It’s about creating a level playing field where everyone, regardless of ability, has access to the same opportunities.”
Representatives from the disability community applauded the initiative, urging the government to fast-track implementation and enforce penalties for non-compliance with accessibility laws. They stressed the importance of including PwDs in the planning and monitoring processes to ensure real-world impact.
This collaboration comes as Nigeria continues to implement the Disability Act signed into law in 2019, which mandates inclusive education, healthcare access, and public infrastructure modifications for PwDs.
Mahmoud also highlighted ongoing efforts to make schools and healthcare centers across the capital more accessible, stating that inclusion must begin at foundational levels.
“This isn’t just about ramps and elevators,” she added. “It’s about policy, planning, and putting people first.”
The FCTA has promised to release a full accessibility action plan later this year, detailing timelines, budgets, and areas of focus in line with global best practices.
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