At Lindii Peace Foundation (LPF), we join the world in marking this important day by reaffirming a simple truth: inclusive societies are the foundation of sustainable development, social cohesion, and human dignity.
In North-East Nigeria, years of conflict, displacement, and limited access to services have significantly increased the number of people living with disabilities. Many acquire disabilities as a result of insurgency-related injuries, malnutrition, preventable diseases, or lack of timely healthcare. Yet, persons with disabilities remain among the most marginalized, facing stigma, limited mobility, and daily barriers to education, protection, healthcare, transportation, livelihood opportunities, and full participation in community life.
The impact of exclusion is far-reaching. It deepens poverty, weakens resilience, and reduces people’s ability to rebuild their lives after conflict, especially in communities already struggling with insecurity and humanitarian need.
At LPF, we believe that a community’s strength is measured by how it supports those most at risk of being left behind. We work closely with community leaders, families, humanitarian actors, and organizations of persons with disabilities across the North-East to promote dignity, expand access to essential services, and ensure that humanitarian and development responses are inclusive, accessible, and people-centered.
Global principles and local realities guide our commitment. We align our work with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, recognizing that the true barriers are not impairments, but the systems and attitudes that prevent people from participating fully in society.
In 2025, LPF continues to:
- Advocate for disability-inclusive programming in conflict-affected communities.
- Support safe, accessible, and gender-sensitive services across our interventions.
- Promote community awareness to reduce stigma and discrimination.
- Strengthen partnerships that amplify the voices and leadership of persons with disabilities.
- Champion access to rehabilitation, assistive devices, and other essential supports where possible.
As we observe this day, LPF calls on government agencies, partners, and community stakeholders to transform commitments into action. Policies, programs, and services must be designed with persons with disabilities, not just for them. Their lived experiences and expertise are vital to building systems that truly leave no one behind.
Together, we can create a Nigeria where every person, regardless of ability, can live with dignity, access opportunities, contribute to community progress, and help rebuild a healthier, more resilient, and more inclusive region.
