The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Jigawa State Chapter, has intensified advocacy for greater inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in government recruitment and access to state benefits, emphasizing equity and equal opportunity across the state.
The call for inclusive governance took center stage during a meeting between the newly elected JONAPWD executives and the Jigawa State Head of the Civil Service, Muhammad Dagaceri, at his office in Dutse on Tuesday.
Leading the delegation, JONAPWD Chairman Adamu Tsada described the visit as both ceremonial and strategic, introducing the new executive members while pressing for increased participation of PWDs in government roles. He emphasized that persons with disabilities possess the skills, qualifications, and determination necessary to contribute meaningfully to state development, stressing that inclusive recruitment is a matter of rights and social justice rather than charity.
“Ensuring disability-inclusive employment practices will improve livelihoods and demonstrate the state government’s commitment to fairness, diversity, and compliance with national disability frameworks,” Tsada said.
The association also commended the Jigawa State Government for establishing a disability support fund, which has exceeded N90 million, providing beneficiaries with mobility aids, educational support, and small-scale business opportunities.
“The fund has created pathways toward independence and dignity for many PWDs across the state,” Tsada added. He expressed readiness for JONAPWD to partner with the government to strengthen inclusive governance initiatives.
In response, Head of the Civil Service Muhammad Dagaceri lauded the association for its organized advocacy, affirming the government’s commitment to equal opportunities for all citizens, including PWDs. He highlighted the importance of constructive dialogue between civil society groups and government institutions as a pathway to more inclusive policies.
In a related advocacy effort, the Women Committee of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) visited the Head of Service to push for increased representation of women in government appointments at all levels. The committee’s chairperson noted that empowering women in the public workforce enhances productivity, service delivery, and institutional outcomes. She expressed the committee’s willingness to collaborate with the Jigawa State Government on programs supporting women workers.
Dagaceri welcomed the initiative, reaffirming his commitment to women-focused reforms within the civil service system.
Observers described the back-to-back engagements as cordial and solution-oriented, signaling growing momentum for inclusive governance in Jigawa State. For PWD advocates, the discussions extend beyond recruitment to representation, dignity, and the right to participate fully in societal decision-making. For women leaders, it underscores equitable access to leadership positions and recognition within public institutions.
As inclusive governance continues to gain traction nationwide, Jigawa State’s engagement with civil society stakeholders offers a promising model for other states. The message is clear: inclusion is not just a policy goal but a responsibility that must translate into tangible action.
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