Thematic Areas

At NAPVID, we are committed to promoting social justice by advocating for the rights, dignity, and equal opportunities of persons with disabilities (PWDs). Our work focuses on eliminating discrimination, challenging systemic inequalities, and ensuring that PWDs have access to justice, education, employment, and social services.

Through policy advocacy, legal support, and community engagement, NAPVID works to break down barriers that prevent PWDs from fully participating in society. We collaborate with government agencies, civil society organizations, and development partners to push for disability-inclusive laws, equitable policies, and accessible public services.

Here, we highlight our key educational programs and their impact:

1. NAPVID’s Advocacy for Domestication and Implementation of Edo State Disability Law

The Network for the Advancement of People with Visible Disabilities (NAPVID) has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Edo State. Alongside key stakeholders such as the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) and the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) program, NAPVID played a pivotal role in pushing for the passage of the 2018 Persons with Disability Prohibition Law. This advocacy led to a significant milestone—the passage of the 2022 Discrimination Against Persons with Disability Prohibition Law of Edo State (Edo State Persons with Disability Law).

While the passage of this law marked a crucial victory, NAPVID recognizes that its mere existence does not automatically translate into real-world protection for PWDs. The lack of implementation mechanisms, inadequate public awareness, and the absence of a dedicated oversight body have hindered the law’s effectiveness. In response, NAPVID has intensified its efforts to advocate for the establishment of the Edo State Disability Commission, as provided for in Part B, Section 25 of the law – (NAPVID Advocacy Efforts). The commission will serve as an enforcement body ensuring that the provisions of the law are fully implemented and that PWDs have access to their rights.

Beyond Edo State, NAPVID is strategically expanding its advocacy efforts across South-South Nigeria, with the goal of achieving the full implementation of disability rights laws across the region. Through multi-stakeholder engagement, policy dialogues, and digital advocacy, the organization is working to ensure that all states in the South-South region domesticate and enforce disability rights laws.

NAPVID remains committed to eliminating the attitudinal, institutional, and environmental barriers that continue to exclude PWDs from governance, social services, and economic opportunities. By mobilizing key stakeholders and leveraging innovative approaches, the organization is driving real, systemic change to create an inclusive and just society for all.

NAPVID’s Commitment to Inclusive Education: Empowering Through Knowledge

At NAPVID, education is a cornerstone of our mission to create an inclusive society where People with Disabilities (PWDs) can thrive. Our educational initiatives are designed to advocate for and implement inclusive educational systems that provide equal opportunities for all. Here, we highlight our key educational programs and their impact:

1. Advocacy for Inclusive Education

NAPVID is dedicated to advocating for a more inclusive educational system that accommodates the needs of PWDs. Our advocacy efforts have led to significant milestones, including the development of the Disability-Centered Inclusive Education Strategic Roadmap for Edo State (DIESTRES). This 10-year action plan outlines a comprehensive strategy to transform the educational landscape in Edo State, ensuring that PWDs have access to quality education in an inclusive environment. DIESTRES focuses on:

• Policy Development: Collaborating with government agencies to create and implement policies that support inclusive education.
• Infrastructure Improvement: Advocating for the construction and renovation of educational facilities to make them accessible to PWDs.
• Teacher Training: Providing training for educators to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to support students with disabilities.

1. Get Your Child to School Campaign

Education is a fundamental right, and NAPVID’s “Get Your Child to School Campaign” aims to ensure that children with disabilities have access to quality education. This campaign advocates for inclusive education policies and practices, encouraging families to enroll their children with disabilities in school. Through community outreach, awareness programs, and partnerships with educational institutions, NAPVID has successfully increased school enrollment for children with disabilities, ensuring they can learn and grow in an inclusive environment.

 

1. Educational Support Programs

NAPVID’s commitment to education extends beyond advocacy. We implement various programs to support the educational needs of PWDs, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities to succeed academically. Key initiatives include:

• NAPVID Educational Support Grant: This grant provides financial assistance to undergraduates with disabilities, covering tuition fees, accommodation, and assistive devices such as laptops and recorders. By alleviating financial barriers, we enable PWDs to pursue their academic ambitions.
• Support for Special Needs Students: We provide hostel accommodation, school fees, and feeding for primary and secondary school students with special needs. This support ensures that these students have a stable and conducive learning environment.
• Inclusive Education Campaigns: Our “Get Your Child to School Campaign” advocates for inclusive education and encourages families to enroll their children with disabilities in school. Through community outreach and awareness programs, we have successfully increased school enrollment for children with disabilities.
• Assistive Learning Devices: To aid learning, NAPVID has provided assistive learning devices such as computers and voice recorders. These devices help students with disabilities to access educational materials and participate fully in their studies

Impact and Achievements

NAPVID’s educational initiatives have made a significant impact on the lives of PWDs. Our advocacy and support programs have:

• Increased Access to Education: By advocating for inclusive education policies and providing financial support, we have increased access to education for PWDs, ensuring they can learn and grow.
• Enhanced Educational Outcomes: Our support programs have improved the academic performance and overall well-being of students with disabilities, enabling them to achieve their full potential.
• Promoted Inclusive Practices: Through DIESTRES and our advocacy efforts, we have promoted inclusive practices within the educational system, creating a more equitable and supportive environment for all students.

As Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” At NAPVID, we are committed to creating an inclusive educational system that empowers PWDs through knowledge. Our advocacy for inclusive education, the development of DIESTRES, and our various support programs demonstrate our dedication to ensuring that PWDs have access to quality education and the resources they need to succeed.

NAPVID’s Commitment to Unlocking Potential

At NAPVID, empowerment is a fundamental aspect of our mission. We eager to unlocking the potential of People with Disabilities (PWDs) through skill acquisition and business support, we can create opportunities for them to lead fulfilling and independent lives. Here, we highlight our key empowerment initiatives and their impact:

Skill Acquisition Programs

NAPVID provides PWDs with the skills they need to succeed in various fields. Our skill acquisition programs are designed to equip PWDs with practical and marketable skills that enhance their employability and self-reliance. These programs include:

• Vocational Training: We support training in various trades such as tailoring, hairdressing, shoemaking, and more. These vocational skills enable PWDs to start their own businesses or secure employment in their chosen fields.
• Digital Skills Training: We provide digital training to PWDs, especially women with disabilities. This training includes courses in computer literacy, digital marketing, and other IT-related skills, preparing PWDs for opportunities in the digital economy.

Business Support Initiatives

To foster economic independence, NAPVID provides comprehensive business support to PWDs. Our initiatives are tailored to help PWDs start and grow their businesses, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to succeed. Key components of our business support include:

• Business Support Packages: We provide essential tools and equipment such as business training, business startup equipment etc. These packages enable them to establish and expand their businesses, contributing to their financial stability.
• Microfinance and Grants: NAPVID offers microfinance services and grants to PWDs to help them overcome financial barriers. These funds are used to start new ventures or scale existing businesses, providing a crucial lifeline for entrepreneurial PWDs.

Economic Empowerment Projects

NAPVID’s commitment to economic empowerment is reflected in our various projects aimed at improving the livelihoods of PWDs. Notable projects include:

• Project HELP (Health, Education, Livelihood, and Palliative): Through Project HELP, we have provided business support packages to about 60 PWDs, enhancing their economic opportunities. Additionally, we have partnered with organizations to offer digital training, reaching over 300 PWDs and equipping them with the skills needed for financial independence.
• ResilientNET Project: This advocacy-based project addresses the economic challenges faced by PWDs due to the removal of fuel subsidies. By advocating for the expansion of social safety nets and improving accessibility to government programs, NAPVID ensures that PWDs have the support they need to thrive economically.

Impact and Achievements

NAPVID’s empowerment initiatives have made a significant impact on the lives of PWDs. Through our skill acquisition programs, business support initiatives, and economic empowerment projects, we have:

• Enhanced the employability and self-reliance of PWDs by providing them with practical skills and digital training.
• Supported the establishment and growth of businesses owned by PWDs, contributing to their financial stability and independence.
• Advocated for policies and programs that improve the economic opportunities and social inclusion of PWDs.

Empowerment is at the core of NAPVID’s work, and we are committed to unlocking the potential of PWDs through skill acquisition, business support, and economic empowerment initiatives. By providing PWDs with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed, we are creating a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone can succeed.

At NAPVID, our commitment to Social Protection is rooted in the belief that every individual, regardless of their abilities, deserves a life of dignity, security, and opportunity. Social protection is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of our mission to create an inclusive society where persons with disabilities (PWDs) can thrive.

Our Approach: NAPVID’s social protection initiatives are designed to address the unique challenges faced by PWDs, ensuring they have access to essential services, economic opportunities, and social support systems. Our approach is holistic, encompassing various aspects of social protection, including:

Here, we highlight some of our key advocacy efforts on social protection:

1. Rights Above Charity Lecture (RACL)

The Rights Above Charity Lecture (RACL) is a flagship event organized by NAPVID to shift the narrative from charity-based approaches to rights-based approaches in addressing the needs of PWDs. This annual lecture brings together stakeholders from government, civil society, and the private sector to discuss and advocate for policies that promote the rights and inclusion of PWDs. RACL serves as a platform for raising awareness, sharing best practices, and fostering collaboration to create a more inclusive society.

1. Gender and Sexual-Based Violence (GBV) Advocacy

NAPVID’s advocacy work also addresses the intersectionality of Gender and Sexual-Based Violence (GBV) and disability. We focus on increasing awareness about GBV, particularly for victims with disabilities who may face additional barriers in reporting due to their disabilities. Our initiatives include:

• Raising Awareness: Conducting campaigns and educational programs to raise awareness about GBV and its impact on PWDs.
• Reporting Mechanisms: Developing and promoting accessible reporting mechanisms for victims with disabilities, ensuring they have the means to report incidents of GBV.
• Support Services: Providing counseling and rehabilitation services to survivors of GBV, helping them recover and regain their independence.

1. Health Advocacy

NAPVID is dedicated to advocating for the health rights of PWDs. One of our significant achievements in this area is the successful enrollment of over 1,200 PWDs into the Edo State Equity Health Plan. This initiative ensures that PWDs have access to essential healthcare services without the burden of financial constraints. By working closely with government agencies and stakeholders, NAPVID has been able to secure this vital support for PWDs, promoting their well-being and improving their quality of life.

Rehabilitation and Counseling for Victims of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV)

NAPVID provides specialized rehabilitation and counseling services to victims of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). Our programs offer a safe and supportive environment for survivors to heal and rebuild their lives. We provide:

• Counseling Services: Professional counseling to help survivors cope with trauma and regain their mental and emotional well-being.
• Rehabilitation Programs: Comprehensive rehabilitation services that include physical therapy, psychological support, and social reintegration activities.

Rehabilitation and Adaptability Support for PWDs

NAPVID is committed to enhancing the independence and adaptability of PWDs through targeted rehabilitation programs. Our initiatives include:

• Physical Rehabilitation: Providing physical therapy and rehabilitation services to improve mobility and functionality.
• Assistive Devices: Supplying assistive devices such as wheelchairs, crutches, and prosthetics to enhance the independence of PWDs.
• Adaptability Training: Offering training programs that teach PWDs how to adapt to their environments and perform daily activities independently.

Other Health Support Services

In addition to our advocacy and rehabilitation efforts, NAPVID provides a range of other health support services to PWDs, including:

• Surgeries and Hospital Bills Payment: Sponsoring lifesaving surgeries and covering hospital bills for PWDs who cannot afford these expenses. This support ensures that PWDs receive the medical attention they need without financial hardship.
• Health Emergencies: Providing immediate support for health emergencies, ensuring that PWDs have access to urgent medical care when needed.

Impact and Achievements

NAPVID’s health support initiatives have made a profound impact on the lives of PWDs. Our efforts have:

• Increased Access to Healthcare: By enrolling over 1,200 PWDs in the Edo State Equity Health Plan, we have significantly increased access to essential healthcare services for PWDs.
• Supported SGBV Survivors: Our rehabilitation and counseling programs have provided critical support to survivors of SGBV, helping them heal and regain their independence.
• Enhanced Independence: Through our rehabilitation and adaptability support programs, we have improved the mobility and independence of PWDs, enabling them to lead more fulfilling lives.
• Provided Lifesaving Support: By sponsoring surgeries and covering hospital bills, we have ensured that PWDs receive the medical care they need without financial burden.

 

1. Edo Disability Law

NAPVID has been at the forefront of advocating for the implementation of Edo Disability Law. This law is a significant milestone in ensuring that PWDs in Edo State have legal protection and access to their rights. Our advocacy efforts have focused on the establishment of the Edo State Disability Commission, which will oversee the implementation of the law and ensure that PWDs have access to essential services and opportunities. Through continuous engagement with government officials and stakeholders, NAPVID has made significant progress in advancing the rights of PWDs in Edo State.

1. Resilient NET Project

The ResilientNET Project, supported by the National Democratic Institute (NDI), is an advocacy-based initiative that addresses the economic challenges faced by PWDs due to the removal of fuel subsidies. This project advocates the expansion of social safety nets to accommodate PWDs and improve their access to government programs and public services. Through the ResilientNET Project, NAPVID has secured commitments from government agencies to enhance the accessibility of public transportation and buildings, ensuring that PWDs can navigate their communities with ease.

1. Hitches & Voices Radio Program

“Hitches & Voices” is a weekly radio program hosted by NAPVID on ITV/Radio 92.3 FM every Friday at 2:00 PM. This 30-minute program serves as a vital platform for discussing key issues related to disability and creating awareness about disability rights. Through engaging discussions and expert interviews, “Hitches & Voices” addresses the challenges faced by PWDs, highlights their achievements, and advocates for their rights. The program plays a crucial role in educating the public, dispelling myths, and fostering a more inclusive society.

NAPVID’s advocacy efforts are driven by our commitment to advancing the rights and inclusion of PWDs. Through initiatives like the Rights Above Charity Lecture, the implementation of the Edo Disability Law, the Get Your Child to School Campaign, the ResilientNET Project, our work on inclusive electoral processes, the “Hitches & Voices” radio program, and our GBV advocacy, we strive to create a society where PWDs can thrive and participate fully in all aspects of life. Join us in our mission to champion the rights of PWDs and create a more inclusive world.

At the Network for the Advancement of People with Visible Disabilities (NAPVID), we
believe that true democracy and sustainable development can only be achieved when governance
is inclusive of all citizens, including people with disabilities (PWDs). Our Inclusive Governance
thematic area focuses on advocating for policies, laws, and institutional reforms that ensure
PWDs have equal representation, participation, and access to decision-making processes at all
levels of government.

Through strategic advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and capacity-building initiatives, NAPVID
works to dismantle barriers that exclude PWDs from governance. We collaborate with
government institutions, civil society organizations, and international partners to mainstream
disability inclusion in public policies, electoral processes, and leadership structures.
By promoting inclusive governance, we empower PWDs to actively participate in shaping
policies that impact their lives, fostering a society where their voices are heard, rights are
protected, and contributions are valued.

Here, we highlight our key educational programs and their impact:
A. Inclusive Electoral Process
NAPVID is committed to ensuring that PWDs can participate fully in the democratic process.
Our advocacy efforts in this area include the “Access Nigeria: Disability Votes Matter”
campaign, which promotes the inclusion of PWDs in elections. In collaboration with the
Inclusive Friends Association (IFA), NAPVID introduced the Braille Ballot Guide (BBG) in
Nigeria’s elections, significantly enhancing the electoral process for PWDs. Additionally, we
have partnered with the Ondo Disability Welfare Agency (ODWA) to collect data on registered
voters with disabilities, ensuring that disability-accessible materials are available at polling units.
5. SOCIAL JUSTICE: Driving social change and fostering an inclusive society
At NAPVID, we are committed to promoting social justice by advocating for the rights, dignity,
and equal opportunities of persons with disabilities (PWDs). Our work focuses on eliminating
discrimination, challenging systemic inequalities, and ensuring that PWDs have access to justice,
education, employment, and social services.

Through policy advocacy, legal support, and community engagement, NAPVID works to break
down barriers that prevent PWDs from fully participating in society. We collaborate with
government agencies, civil society organizations, and development partners to push for
disability-inclusive laws, equitable policies, and accessible public services.

Here, we highlight our key educational programs and their impact:
a) NAPVID’s Advocacy for Domestication and Implementation of Edo State Disability
Law
The Network for the Advancement of People with Visible Disabilities (NAPVID) has been at the
forefront of advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Edo State. Alongside
key stakeholders such as the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities
(JONAPWD) and the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) program, NAPVID played a
pivotal role in pushing for the passage of the 2018 Persons with Disability Prohibition Law.

This advocacy led to a significant milestone—the passage of the 2022 Discrimination Against
Persons with Disability Prohibition Law of Edo State (Edo State Persons with Disability Law).
While the passage of this law marked a crucial victory, NAPVID recognizes that its mere
existence does not automatically translate into real-world protection for PWDs. The lack of
implementation mechanisms, inadequate public awareness, and the absence of a dedicated
oversight body have hindered the law’s effectiveness. In response, NAPVID has intensified its
efforts to advocate for the establishment of the Edo State Disability Commission, as provided
for in Part B, Section 25 of the law – (NAPVID Advocacy Efforts). The commission will serve as
an enforcement body ensuring that the provisions of the law are fully implemented and that
PWDs have access to their rights.

Beyond Edo State, NAPVID is strategically expanding its advocacy efforts across South-South
Nigeria, with the goal of achieving the full implementation of disability rights laws across the
region. Through multi-stakeholder engagement, policy dialogues, and digital advocacy, the
organization is working to ensure that all states in the South-South region domesticate and
enforce disability rights laws.

NAPVID remains committed to eliminating the attitudinal, institutional, and environmental
barriers that continue to exclude PWDs from governance, social services, and economic
opportunities. By mobilizing key stakeholders and leveraging innovative approaches, the
organization is driving real, systemic change to create an inclusive and just society for all