Pic:Executives of Sokoto Professionals Network with a group of people with disabilities who paid a courtesy visit to SPN SecretariatBy Rakiya A.Muhammad
The Sokoto Professionals Network (SPN), a non-governmental, nonprofit, and independent social organization, has expressed commitment to complementing inclusiveness, accessibility, and policy implementation of the Disability Act 2018.
Sirajo Dalhatu Sifawa, the Director of Media and Public Affairs of Sokoto Professionals’ Network, SPN, described the issue of accessibility as a critical need.
“That is why the Sokoto Professionals Network is keen on advocating the need for improving infrastructure (buildings), transport, digital platforms for improved communications and equal access,” he stated.
“Above all, SPN advocates for effective policy implementation of the Disability Act 2018, supported by resources, awareness, and stakeholder engagement.”
He expressed SPN’s commitment to promoting societal development, emphasising youth engagement to increase productivity and propel progress in all professional sectors.
The unified effort by SPN’s registered members, the Media/Public Affairs Director added, aims to elevate the Nigerian society, with a special focus on Sokoto State.
“The Sokoto Professionals Network partners with groups of people with disabilities through various engagements, consultations, and outreach programs,” he disclosed.
“These initiatives aim to raise awareness, address barriers, and leverage the skills of people with disabilities to promote their participation in Nigeria’s development.”
According to him, SPN’s continuous submissions and suggestions remained on several platforms through its directorate of gender and special interest groups under Hajiya Aishatu Abdullahi.
These submissions aim to improve awareness and sensitization; encourage allocation of resources for accessibility, infrastructure, and support services; establish monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track progress; and strengthen collaborations with disability organizations and advocacy groups.
“Sokoto Professionals Network therefore remain hopeful that with continued efforts, effects and actions, Disability Act 2018 will have a fruitful impact in changing and improving the well-being of social, political, economic and educational strength of people with disabilities in Nigeria,” he summed up
