A civil society group, Muryar Matasa Initiative (MMI) for Employment Development and Inclusion, has urged the Katsina State Government to move beyond promises and fully enforce the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Law.
The call was contained in a statement released on Wednesday in Katsina, jointly signed by Saratu Hamidu, Executive Director, and Nasir Dauda, Secretary-General of the organisation.
The group appealed to Governor Dikko Radda to fast-track the implementation of the law, stressing that continued delays have left persons with disabilities (PWDs) without essential protections and opportunities.
According to the organisation, although the legislation was signed into law in 2023, the absence of a functional implementation structure has exposed many PWDs to ongoing discrimination and marginalisation.
It highlighted that Katsina State has an estimated 600,000 persons living with disabilities, including those with spinal cord injuries, visual and hearing impairments, leprosy-related conditions, as well as other physical and developmental challenges.
The group further noted that Nigeria’s PWD population stands at about 35 million, describing the figure as a clear indication of the urgency required at the state level.
It maintained that fully implementing the law would safeguard fundamental rights, promote equal access to justice, and curb discrimination in both public and private institutions.
“The law would provide a structured framework for inclusive healthcare, education, and employment opportunities, thereby improving the quality of life for affected individuals,” the group emphasised.
The organisation added that proper enforcement would not only benefit residents but also position Katsina as a leading example of inclusive governance and social justice in line with global standards.
While commending Governor Radda for efforts toward inclusion and creating platforms for PWD participation in governance, the group insisted that “more concrete steps are required to translate policy into action.”
It therefore called on the government to urgently enact the law, establish enforcement systems, provide adequate funding, and ensure that persons with disabilities are actively involved in its implementation.
“Implementation is not merely a legal obligation, it is a moral imperative and the pathway to dignity, equality, and opportunity for all citizens,” the statement added.
