TAF Africa, News Central host disability summit, donate wheelchairs in Asaba
…stakeholders push for representation, end to discrimination against PWDs Persons with disabilities (PWDs) have called for stronger policy implementation, inclusive governance, and an end to systemic discrimination at a town
…stakeholders push for representation, end to discrimination against PWDs
- From Simon Utebor, Asaba
Persons with disabilities (PWDs) have called for stronger policy implementation, inclusive governance, and an end to systemic discrimination at a town hall meeting held in Asaba, Delta State.
The event was organised by News Central Television in collaboration with The Albino Foundation Africa (TAF Africa) and brought together more than 200 participants, including PWDs, policymakers, advocates, community leaders, and healthcare professionals.
The forum, held at BON Hotel, Asaba, focused on challenges affecting PWDs, including limited access to education, employment, and healthcare, as well as poor infrastructure and weak enforcement of disability laws.
TAF Africa, led by CEO Jake Epelle, donated wheelchairs and other assistive devices to over 50 PWDs after the town hall meeting.
The event focused on empowerment, inclusion, and addressing systemic discrimination.
Participants discussed challenges, and the initiative promoted justice and equity over sympathy.
Participants shared personal experiences of exclusion and discrimination.
A visually impaired teacher, Sola Idowu, said he had struggled to secure employment since 2014 due to bias, while Chinedu Uwabuofu highlighted accessibility challenges at Delta State University, noting that inadequate facilities often prevent full participation in lectures.
Stakeholders at the meeting called for greater inclusion in governance. President of ISJID, Isaac Odjuwu, urged federal and state governments to create designated seats for persons with disabilities in legislative bodies to ensure representation in policymaking.
Declaring the event open, the Asagba of Asaba, Epiphany Azinge, called for a shift from sympathy to practical solutions rooted in justice and equity.
He urged PWDs to embrace resilience and avoid being perceived as dependent, while also calling on government and stakeholders to prioritise inclusive infrastructure.
Founder and Chief Executive Officer of TAF Africa, Jake Epelle, emphasised the need to move beyond charity-based approaches to disability issues.
He called for the enforcement of existing laws, including the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act, noting that implementation remains weak.
Managing Director of News Central Television, Kayode Akintemi, said the initiative reflected the organisation’s commitment to amplifying marginalised voices and promoting social change.
The town hall featured interactive sessions where participants proposed solutions and community-driven initiatives, while organisers pledged continued advocacy to advance inclusion and improve the welfare of persons with disabilities across Nigeria.
