NGOs seek inclusion of PWDs in development | The Guardian Nigeria News

A coalition of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) has urged Nigerians to help strengthen fundamental rights and contribute to development of all Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWDs) in the country.

The NGOs, at a media briefing to celebrate International Day for Persons with Disabilities in Ibadan organised by Star Children Development Initiative, in partnership with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), said governments and all stakeholders need to carry along individuals with disabilities because they have special needs that require to be addressed in the country.

Chief Executive Officer of the Initiative, Grace Alexander, urged media to contribute to an effective change of persons with disabilities in all aspects of societal life and create awareness to fight stereotypes-related to persons with disabilities in a manner consistent with a respect for human rights.

Similarly, Prof. Sabitu Olagoke of the Department of Religious Studies, University of Ibadan (UI), in his address, said media should play important role in presenting disability issues that will promote rights and dignity of PWDs to build a peaceful and inclusive society for all.

Also, Chairman of the NUJ, Adedamola Babalola, who was represented by his deputy, Oluseye Ojo, said the union would continue to support persons with disabilities, urging the government to put the right person in place for inclusive development.