By Talatu Maiwada

The Adamawa People with Disabilities and Vulnerable Support Initiative (ADPWDVSI), a non-governmental organisation, has called for greater inclusion of women and girls with disabilities in Michika and Madagali Local Government Areas of Adamawa State.

Mrs Salamatu Abdullahi, Executive Director of ADPWDVSI, made the call on Thursday in Yola during the close-out of a project implemented in the two LGAs.

She said the initiative titled, “The Empowerment of Women and Girls with Disabilities Towards Full and Effective Participation and Gender Equality,” ran from Sept. 2024 to May 2025.

Abdullahi said the programme was supported by the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund (NHF) and implemented in partnership with UN Women.

According to Abdullahi, the project aims to eliminate violence against women and girls with disabilities, promote their economic independence, and ensure their active participation in community decision-making processes.

“The project’s primary objective is to foster an environment where women and girls with disabilities can live free from violence, attain economic autonomy, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

“Key components of the project included community sensitisation on disability inclusion, capacity building for local stakeholders, development of inclusive protection mechanisms, and advocacy for the domestication of disability rights laws in Adamawa.

“We have been advocating for the domestication of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act in Adamawa, but the law is yet to be passed. That remains a major challenge,” Abdullahi noted.

She added that beneficiaries received vocational training in areas such as tailoring, poultry farming, backyard gardening, rice processing, shoemaking, and small livestock management.

Abdullahi also highlighted the project’s success in community engagement, noting that traditional and community leaders were involved from the outset to ensure ownership and sustainability.

“For the first time, we did proper community entry. The project had buy-in from community leaders, everyone is aware of the programme and is committed to its continuity,” she said.

Mr Abraham Iliya, a participant from Michika, shared how the training changed his outlook and strengthened his relationship with his community.

“This project has impacted my life. I’ve always believed that persons with disabilities should be recognised.

“I bond more with my workers and community members now,” he said.

Dr Olaniyi Aderibigbe, Project Analyst with UN Women, emphasised the initiative’s role in promoting dignity and economic resilience for women and girls with disabilities.

Aderibigbe said the project was aimed at breaking barriers, increasing access, and promoting both protection and dignity.

“The vocational training and start-up kits are designed to ensure beneficiaries are financially independent and resilient,” Aderibigbe said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru