By Nafisat Makinde
The Federal Ministry of Health & Social Welfare has reaffirmed its commitment to making assistive technology (AT) accessible, safe, and affordable for over 30 million Nigerians living with disabilities. This bold declaration was made during a high-level stakeholders meeting held in Abuja to mark the 2nd World Day for Assistive Technology, under the theme “Unlock the Everyday: Empowering Lives, Enhancing Inclusion.”
Dr. Okolo Oteri Eme, National Coordinator of the National Eye, Ear, and Sensory Functions Programme, described AT as “a human right and a condition for equal opportunity and participation.” She emphasized that access to AT can be a game-changer in Nigeria, unlocking independence, mobility, communication, education, and productivity for persons with disabilities, the ageing population, and those with chronic health conditions.
The Ministry is preparing to roll out assistive technology devices, including spectacles and hearing aids, to vulnerable populations nationwide through the Renewed Hope Outreach Connect Initiative. “This isn’t just about awareness,” Dr. Eme said. “We are creating space through policies, guidelines, and targeted outreach. The Renewed Hope Agenda places people at the center, and we are working to ensure every Nigerian who needs assistive technology has a pathway to access it.”
The meeting highlighted the importance of awareness and public education, noting that many people with visual and mobility impairments go without aid, even though relatively simple technologies could dramatically improve their lives. Stakeholders resolved to consolidate their recommendations into concrete action points to guide future policy, infrastructure investments, and public health interventions.
Dr. Amina Hassan Wali, Chief Medical Director of the National Eye Centre, Kaduna, emphasized the importance of mainstreaming AT into healthcare and society. “Today is very significant,” Dr. Wali said. “In ophthalmology, something as basic as glasses is assistive technology and it changes lives. But these devices are expensive and not easily available. We need strong advocacy and more funding so that every Nigerian who needs these tools can get them.”
Dr. Eme concluded by emphasizing the potential for building an inclusive Nigeria where every citizen has the tools to live, learn, work, and thrive. “Together,” she said, “we can build an inclusive Nigeria where every citizen has the tools to live, learn, work, and thrive.”
The stakeholders’ meeting was a unified call to action, bringing together key government representatives, country directors, disability advocates, civil society actors, and technical partners. As Nigeria moves forward, the focus will be on collective effort and ensuring that the voices of persons with disabilities are heard in policy-making.
