Disability inclusion key to national security, says NSCDC commandant

NSCDC

Kindly share this story:

The Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Capital Territory Command, Olusola Odumosu, has emphasised that inclusive disability remains vital to strengthening national security.

Odumosu made the remarks during an address at the Command headquarters as part of activities marking the International Day for Persons with Disabilities.

Odumosu, in a statement signed by the command’s spokesperson, Monica Ojobi, on Wednesday, stated that disability inclusion contributes significantly to economic growth and national stability.

“By protecting vulnerable groups, it enhances economic growth, where all citizens can participate productively, promote social unity and reduce discrimination, as well as build trust in institutions where every citizen feels seen and protected,” he stated.

Speaking on this year’s theme, ‘Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress in Nigeria,’ the commandant noted that the NSCDC remains committed to upholding dignity, fairness, and equal opportunity.

“Security is not about preventing threats, but upholding dignity, fairness, and equal opportunity for all citizens, including persons with disabilities,” he said.

According to the statement, Odumosu stressed that inclusion must remain a core part of the national security strategy.

“With over 25 million persons with disabilities in Nigeria, we cannot talk about development or security while a significant segment of our population faces avoidable barriers,” Odumosu said.

The commandant highlighted steps the FCT Command has taken to strengthen inclusive security and improve communication with citizens, including those with hearing impairments.

He disclosed that the command recently trained 250 personnel in sign language proficiency, describing the initiative as a major milestone.

Odumosu added that the initiative aims to improve emergency response for persons with hearing impairments, enhance accessibility to NSCDC services in public places, and strengthen communication during rescue operations and conflict mediation.

He said it would also help deepen trust between the Corps and the disability community.

He further called for collective national efforts to advance inclusion. “For Nigeria to advance, we must all work together to promote full implementation of the 2018 Act, inclusive education and skills development, economic empowerment and job opportunities, provide accessible public buildings, transportation, and ICT, and representation of persons with disabilities in governance. Inclusion is not an option but a national duty,” he said.

The event also featured a road walk by NSCDC FCT personnel to commemorate the International Day for Persons with Disabilities.

The Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018 was signed into law in Nigeria in December 2018, outlawing discrimination against persons with disabilities and requiring public buildings, transport systems, and other facilities to become accessible within a five-year transition period.

Nevertheless, recent audits and reports indicate that implementation has been weak. A 2024 report found that 28% of health facilities lack basic accessibility features for PWDs.

As a result, substantial numbers of Nigerians with disabilities still face exclusion from essential services, including healthcare, education, and employment, despite formal legal protections.

The PUNCH journalist, Gift, has over three years of experience covering elections, security and foreign affairs.

Kindly share this story:

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: [email protected]

UPDATE NEWS: Nigerians can now invest ₦2.5million on premium domains and profit about ₦17-₦25Million. All earnings paid in US Dollars. Rather than wonder, 👉 click here to find out how it work (Be sure to ask for evidence of clients that have benefitted from this)

Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The Punch Newspaper on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now!

Stay in the know—fast. Get instant alerts, breaking headlines, and exclusive stories with the Punch News App. Download now and never miss a beat.