Nigerians with disabilities demand quick passage of disability law

The president of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, Mr Danladi Bashiru, has urged the National Assembly to speed up passage of the Disability Bill into law and set up a commission to supervise the implementation of the provisions of the law.

Mr Bashiru told journalists in Abuja that while Nigeria is delaying the passage of the bill, several African countries, including Ghana, Uganda and South Africa, already have legislation protecting persons with disabilities such that they have become members of parliament and play other notable roles in their countries.

He said the recent success at the Paralympics by Nigerians with disabilities is evidence that people with disabilities can contribute tremendously to the growth and success of the country if their interests are protected by law.

Mr Bashiru opined that when passed into law, the Disabilities Bill will not only protect persons living with disabilities but will also cater for the elderly, pregnant women and children.