The Benue State Government has committed to domesticate the Disability Act, a move aimed at enhancing support for persons with disabilities in the state.
The pledge was made by Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Deborah Aber, during a meeting with Grace Jerry, Executive Director of the Inclusive Friends Association (IFA), and her team on Thursday.
Aber emphasized the significance of the Act and commended the IFA for their dedication to advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities. She revealed that the draft bill has already been presented to the State Executive Council and is currently under review to facilitate its domestication.
“I have it on good authority that the Attorney General has not only drafted the bill but has also presented it to the State Executive Council for consideration. We are committed to ensuring its passage,” Aber stated.
She highlighted the Alia administration’s determination to address the needs of persons with disabilities, noting the recent appointment of Bem Anshe as the Special Assistant to the Governor on Disability Affairs. This role aims to amplify the voices of individuals with disabilities within the government, and for the first time, a sign language interpreter has been appointed to ensure effective communication.
Director General of the Budget and Planning Commission Jerome Andohol, also assured the IFA team of the government’s support for the initiative, emphasizing that adequate resources would be allocated for its successful implementation.
During separate advocacy visits, Grace Jerry stressed the urgency of domestication, pointing out that Benue is currently the only state in the North Central region yet to adopt the Act. She called for a budget allocation specifically for the Act, highlighting that without such legislation, persons with disabilities remain vulnerable to exclusion from essential services and opportunities.
Jerry expressed gratitude for the engagement with government officials and reiterated the need for collaboration to ensure the bill’s passage. “We consider your office (SSG) crucial in this effort. As a leader who understands the challenges faced by marginalized groups, we appeal for your support to help pass this bill to the governor,” she urged.
Anshe noted the previous administration’s failure to domesticate the bill, but expressed optimism that the current government would successfully implement the Act, ultimately providing a more inclusive environment for all citizens.
