Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Nigeria

The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) serves as the umbrella organization representing persons with disabilities across Nigeria. As a coalition of key umbrella organizations, JONAPWD brings together a diverse range of disability groups, uniting them in advocacy efforts to promote the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities at national and international levels. The organization is a full member of prominent global and regional disability networks, including the Disabled People’s International (DPI), the West Africa Federation of the Disabled (WAFOD), and Rehabilitation International. Additionally, JONAPWD is part of the International Disability Alliance (IDA), a global network that works to empower persons with disabilities and ensure their inclusion in society. The organization also holds a position on the board of the African Disability Forum (ADF), a body that brings together continental, sub-regional, and national disability organizations.

In addition to its international affiliations, JONAPWD actively participates in several important national committees, including the Presidential Committee on Climate Change, which underscores its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and the inclusion of persons with disabilities in national dialogues on climate action and other policy areas.

Vision and Mission

JONAPWD envisions a Nigeria where persons with disabilities—regardless of gender, age, or type of disability—are fully engaged, empowered, and able to enjoy and exercise their rights on an equal footing with others. The organization works to ensure that persons with disabilities contribute meaningfully to the national development, peace, and stability of Nigeria.

Since its establishment in 1992, JONAPWD has led numerous strategic initiatives to ensure the rights of persons with disabilities in Nigeria are recognized and respected. One of the significant achievements of JONAPWD’s advocacy efforts was the passage of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018, a landmark piece of legislation aimed at safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.

Key Areas of Work

JONAPWD’s work spans multiple thematic areas aimed at improving the lives of persons with disabilities in Nigeria. We employ a variety of strategies to pursue its mission and achieve its objectives. These include:

• Movement Building Strengthening: Strengthening disability movements and fostering unity among various disability groups.

• Granting and Funding: Securing financial support for disability-focused projects and programs.

• Policy Advocacy: Engaging in advocacy efforts to influence policy and legislative changes for the benefit of persons with disabilities.

• Capacity Building: Providing training and skills development to members and stakeholders.

• Awareness Creation and Sensitization: Raising awareness about disability issues through campaigns and outreach programs.

• Stakeholder Engagements: Collaborating with government agencies, civil society, and private sector stakeholders to promote inclusive development.

• Research and Communications: Conducting research to support evidence-based advocacy and public awareness.

• Budget Tracking and Analysis: Monitoring government and organizational budgets to ensure adequate funding for disability-related initiatives.

JONAPWD operates across Nigeria, with a network of members and organizations in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Its members and networks frequently implement projects at the local and regional levels, contributing to the advancement of disability rights and inclusion across the country. Though these activities often occur without official records with JONAPWD, the organization continues to facilitate and support these efforts through its national and regional partnerships.

Under the current leadership of Mr. Abdullahi Usman Aliyu, JONAPWD is a pivotal force in the advocacy for persons with disabilities in Nigeria, bringing together diverse voices and organizations to push for a more inclusive and equitable society. Through its membership in influential global and regional networks, and its extensive engagement in policy-making and advocacy, JONAPWD is playing a key role in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities and ensuring their meaningful participation in all spheres of life.