Deaf Association Calls for Inclusive Policies and Practices in FCT

 

The Abuja Association of the Deaf (AAD) has issued a press release on the occasion of the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, calling for

collective actions to remove barriers and create an inclusive space for persons with disabilities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The AAD is a non-governmental organization that represents the interests and rights of the Deaf community in Abuja. The AAD advocates for the recognition and inclusion of sign language as a means of communication and education for the Deaf.

The press release highlights the challenges faced by persons with disabilities, especially the Deaf, in accessing basic services, opportunities, and rights in the FCT. It also urges the FCT authorities to prioritize the domestication of the Disability Act and the establishment of the FCT Agency for Persons with Disabilities, which would be responsible for addressing the needs of persons with disabilities in the FCT. The press release also calls on other ministries and agencies in the FCT to ensure that persons with disabilities are included in their plans, policies, and programs, and that they are allocated 5% of employment opportunities in line with the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) 2018. The press release also expresses concern over the abuse and discrimination of Deaf people, especially women and children, at their home and workplace.

The press release was issued on December 16, 2023, on the occasion of the Annual Get together (AGT 1.0) of the AAD and the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, which is observed annually on December 3rd.

The press release was issued in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria and the seat of the FCT.

The aims is to make known to every stakeholders on the situation of persons with disabilities in the FCT, and to speak for their inclusion and empowerment. The press release also aligns with the theme of this year’s International Day for Persons with Disabilities, which is “United in Action to rescue and achieve the sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for, with and by persons with disabilities”. The press release emphasizes the vital role of full participation of inclusive policies and practices with sign language in constructing a resilient society for all.