Kano Social Protection Agency Seeks NCPWD Support on Statewide Disability Register
By Pulse Time Nigeria
The Kano State Social Protection Agency has sought technical support from the National Commission for Persons With Disabilities (NCPWD) to develop a comprehensive register for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) across the state.
The Director-General of the agency, Dr. Fateema Abubakar Abdullahi (Afneef), made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
She described Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration as “one of the most PWD-friendly in the country,” noting that Kano has recorded major progress in disability inclusion over the past year.
Dr. Fateema outlined some of the reforms implemented under the current administration, including the establishment of the Kano State Disability Commission, the adoption of inclusive budgeting frameworks, and the enforcement of non-discrimination in employment, health, and public services.
She also listed policies promoting equal access, dignity, and participation for PWDs, alongside the implementation of key laws such as the Gender Equity and Social Inclusion Policy (2024), Child Protection Law (2023), and the Girl-Child Education Policy (2024).
According to her, the Social Protection Agency, created in July 2025, has already begun full operations, secured a dedicated 2026 social protection budget line, and deepened collaboration with ministries, departments, agencies, and national partners.
She said two strategic areas require urgent federal support: technical guidance for developing a statewide PWD register and expertise to integrate disability considerations across all social protection programmes in Kano.
“As Nigeria’s most populous state, we cannot fully meet the needs of PWDs without strong federal–state partnership,” she added.
Responding, the Executive Secretary of the NCPWD, Dr. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, praised Kano for showing “exceptional political will” toward disability inclusion, noting that the country has over 38 million persons with disabilities, many of whom need expensive assistive devices.
He commended the DG’s leadership, describing her as a pioneer laying “a solid foundation for future generations,” and assured the agency of the Commission’s full support.
“We are committed to working closely with Kano State. Any programme that enhances disability inclusion will receive our full support,” he said.
The meeting produced key outcomes, including strengthened federal–state collaboration, commitment to supporting Kano’s PWD Register, agreement to jointly advance disability-inclusive social protection, and improved communication channels for continued engagement.
The agency said the visit reflects its commitment to ensuring that no citizen is left behind, especially vulnerable populations.