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Bem Akaanane

Every Nigerian has the right to live with dignity, freedom, and equal opportunity. Persons with disabilities (PWDs) are not an exception.

In 2018, Nigeria passed the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act. This law makes it a crime to discriminate against PWDs and gives them the right to education, healthcare, work, and accessibility. Nigeria also supports the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).

Your Rights as a Person with Disability.

Infographic titled "Your Rights as a Person with Disability in Nigeria" featuring six illustrated panels
Three people—one using crutches, one standing, and one in a wheelchair—support each other inside a protective shield, symbolizing dignity and respect for persons with disabilities.

Right to Dignity

No one should insult, harass, or abuse you because of disability.

You have the right to be treated with respect at home, in school, at work, and in public.

  • Right to Education

Children with disabilities must be accepted in schools.

Schools should provide learning aids, sign language interpreters, or accessible classrooms.

Higher institutions must not deny admission based on disability.

Right to Health

Right to Health

Hospitals, clinics, and health workers must provide equal treatment.

Medical facilities should be made accessible (ramps, wide doors, clear signs).

Denying care because of disability is against the law.

Right to Employment

Right to Employment

You have the right to apply for and keep jobs without discrimination.

Employers should provide reasonable accommodations (such as flexible work tools or accessible offices).

Public organizations must reserve at least 5% of employment opportunities for PWDs.

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  • Right to Accessibility

Public buildings, roads, and transport must be accessible.

Banks, schools, markets, and offices should have ramps, lifts, and clear signage.

Transport systems (like buses and airports) should provide support for wheelchair users and others.

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  • Right to Participation

You have the right to vote, contest elections, and be part of community decision-making.

You can join clubs, associations, and public programs without discrimination.

A Nigerian person with a disability holding a symbol of law, representing rights and justice in Nigeria.

Right to Justice

The law protects you from discrimination and abuse.

You can report violations to the authorities, advocacy groups, or the courts.

Responsibilities of Government and Society

Government: Must enforce the disability law, make buildings accessible, and support inclusion.

Employers and Schools: Must give equal opportunities and reasonable accommodations.

Society: Must treat Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) with respect and recognize their abilities.

🚨 What To Do If Your Rights Are Denied

🙌 How Everyone Can Help

  • Use respectful language — avoid offensive terms.
  • Offer help kindly, but respect independence.
  • Celebrate the abilities and achievements of persons with disabilities.
  • Speak up when you see discrimination.

📞 Useful Contacts

💙 Disability is not inability. Together, we can create a Nigeria where everyone is included and valued.