Policymakers Seek Inclusion Of People With Disabilities In Nation Building

Strong advocacy for the integration of People with Disabilities (PWDs) was a key highlight at AbilityX 2025 in Lagos, which advanced the future of disability inclusion in Nigeria.

At the event, over 300 leaders, policymakers, private-sector executives, innovators and disability advocates gathered for AbilityX 2025, Nigeria’s premier disability leadership conference organised by Project Enable Africa in partnership with Jobberman Nigeria and other strategic partners.

Held under the theme “The Future of Disability Inclusion in Nigeria,” the conference explored how technology, data, policy, and innovation can drive sustainable inclusion for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Discussions highlighted persistent gaps in policy implementation, employment, healthcare, infrastructure, and representation, while showcasing practical and scalable solutions across various sectors.

In his opening remark, Dr Kola Olugbodi, the Board Co-Chairman of Project Enable Africa, emphasised that Nigeria’s estimated 30 million persons with disabilities represent a significant, underutilised talent pool.

He called for deliberate policy reforms, empowerment, and representation to unlock this potential.

The conference featured plenary sessions, breakout discussions, and fireside chats on inclusive data and budgeting, healthcare, finance, media, hospitality, employability, and workplace inclusion.
Jobberman Nigeria led two sessions focused on inclusive employment and service excellence.

Esther Obele emphasised that inclusive workplaces are a right, not a favour, calling on employers and policymakers to embed accessibility and equity into recruitment and workplace culture.

In the Customer Service session, Oluwajuwonlo Esho highlighted the importance of customer experience in driving loyalty and business sustainability, positioning excellent service as a powerful tool for retention and growth.

In her keynote address, Group Executive at Sterling Financial Holdings, Temi Dalley, challenged prevailing narratives around disability, stating that inclusion is not optional but a strategic advantage.

She urged stakeholders to move beyond awareness and commit to action that delivers measurable impact. A highlight of the conference was the AbilityX Impact Awards, recognising organisations and individuals advancing disability inclusion.

Award recipients included Access Tech Innovation & Research Centre, MTN Nigeria, and Adejobi Adewoye.

Closing the event, Olalekan Owonikoko, Executive Director of Project Enable Africa, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to translating conference outcomes into sustained action, noting that true inclusion requires implementation, accountability, and collaboration.