NAPVID LEADS STRATEGIC PLANNING FOR THE EDO STATE COMMISSION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES.

The Network for the Advancement of Persons Living with Visible Disabilities (NAPVID), with support from the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme implemented by International IDEA and funded by the European Union, organized a three-day Strategic Planning and Capacity Building Workshop for the Edo State Commission for Persons with Disabilities (ESCPD) from 20th to 22nd January 2026 in Benin City. The engagement was part of the project “Capacity Building for Justice Providers in Handling Vulnerable Groups.”

The workshop brought together the Chairman, Honourable members, and staff of the Commission, duty bearers representing the MDAs, to strengthen institutional systems, improve strategic direction, and enhance coordinated responses to the needs of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). It provided a structured platform for reflection, analysis, and joint planning to improve governance, service delivery, and accountability within the Commission.

Over the three days, participants engaged in interactive presentations, group work, case studies, and practical exercises. Sessions focused on understanding the legal and institutional framework of the Commission, identifying challenges affecting PWDs, and developing evidence-based strategies to address them. Activities included problem tree analysis, needs assessments, SWOT and PESTLE exercises, and participatory planning to ensure practical and implementable solutions.

A key outcome of the workshop was the development of a three-year Strategic Plan (2026–2028) and a one-year Work Plan for 2026, providing a clear roadmap for the Commission’s operations, service delivery, and performance monitoring. Participants strengthened their analytical, planning, and coordination capacities, while also improving inter-agency collaboration and understanding of institutional mandates.

The workshop also highlighted the importance of participatory planning, continuous capacity development, and strong collaboration between government agencies, civil society, and development partners to ensure sustainable implementation of the plans. Participants recommended the formal adoption and dissemination of the Strategic and Work Plans, as well as regular monitoring and technical support to track progress and address emerging challenges.

Through this strategic engagement, NAPVID, with the support of the RoLAC Programme, International IDEA, and the European Union, successfully strengthened the institutional and technical capacity of the Edo State Commission for Persons with Disabilities. The development of these plans marks a significant step toward inclusive governance, improved service delivery, and access to justice for Persons with Disabilities in Edo State.