By Gabriel Ameh
Abuja – The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ending workplace discrimination against journalists with disabilities through strengthened collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba, gave the assurance in Abuja when he received the NUJ FCT Council Committee on Disability led by Comrade Jide Oyekunle and Comrade Kehinde Akintola.
Hon. Abba, who conveyed the goodwill of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, pledged that his office will work closely with the media to ensure that no journalist faces mistreatment or exclusion on account of disability.
My office will be working hand in hand with the NUJ FCT Council under the leadership of Comrade Grace Ike to ensure that no journalist suffers discrimination or mistreatment on account of disability,” Abba said.
He emphasized that the media remains a vital partner in amplifying the voices of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), showcasing their talents, and advocating for policies that guarantee inclusivity.
“Without the media, our voices cannot be amplified; and when our voices are not amplified, they cannot be heard. This is why we place a very high premium on our relationship with the NUJ,” he added.
Abba also commended NUJ FCT Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, for establishing the Disability Committee, describing it as the first of its kind in Nigeria’s media industry and a bold step towards inclusion.
In her remarks, Comrade Ike, represented by Council Secretary Comrade Jide Oyekunle, pledged NUJ’s commitment to collaborate with the Presidency in correcting stereotypes and advancing the rights of persons with disabilities.
“This visit is not only to express solidarity, but also to reaffirm our willingness to work with your office in driving awareness, correcting stereotypes, and addressing negative identities placed on persons with disabilities,” she said.
She noted that the NUJ would leverage its vast platforms across print, broadcast, and digital media to highlight challenges faced by PWDs, advocate for implementation of existing laws, and promote inclusive journalism through media campaigns and training.
Similarly, the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Committee on Disability, Comrade Kehinde Akintola, lauded Hon. Abba’s efforts since assuming office, while stressing the need for the full implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018. He urged the Presidency to establish a dedicated committee to monitor compliance across all sectors, including the media.
