The Benue State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to enacting the Disability Act to support persons with disabilities, a move expected to make the state more inclusive.
Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Deborah Aber, made this assurance on Thursday while meeting with Grace Jerry, Executive Director of the Inclusive Friends Association (IFA), and her team in Makurdi.
Aber praised the IFA’s advocacy efforts, calling it a worthy cause and noted that the bill, already presented to the State Executive Council, would soon undergo review for adoption.
She emphasized that the Alia administration prioritizes addressing the needs of persons with disabilities.
“The Attorney General has not only drafted the bill but has also presented it to the State Executive Council for consideration and passage,” Aber stated.
“The bill is in progress, and once the memo is reviewed, we will ensure the Act is domesticated.
This administration is deeply committed to the welfare of persons with disabilities,” she continued.
She further highlighted steps taken by the government, including appointing Bem Anshe as Special Assistant to the Governor on Disability Affairs and employing a sign language interpreter—the first in the state.
“These efforts show our dedication to inclusivity, ensuring everyone has a voice in governance,” Aber said.
Director General of the Budget and Planning Commission, Prof. Jerome Andohol, also met with the IFA team and pledged the government’s support for the project, stating they would provide resources as needed.
Grace Jerry, IFA Executive Director, expressed urgency for the bill’s passage, citing that Benue is the only state in Nigeria’s North Central zone yet to enact the Disability Act.
She urged senior officials to support the bill’s enactment and ensure budgetary allocations for implementation.
“The absence of the Act leaves persons with disabilities vulnerable to exclusion, as there is no legal requirement for sectors to support them,” Jerry stated.
She also praised the Attorney General’s role and called on the SSG to champion the bill, emphasizing the need for a law to protect the rights of marginalized groups in the state.
Bem Anshe, Special Assistant on Disability Affairs, voiced optimism that the current administration would succeed where previous efforts had failed, stating, “This time, we are hopeful the Disability Act will become a reality in Benue.”
