Daniel Otera
As tributes continue to pour in following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, voices from Nigeria’s disability community have described him as a leader who did not just govern but included. In this exclusive interview, The Journal Nigeria’s Daniel Otera spoke with Comrade Ibrahim Alhasan, the National Youth Leader of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD). He reflects on Buhari’s impact on disability rights, inclusion, and how his administration changed the lives of millions of Nigerians with disabilities.
What is your general reflection on the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari?
On behalf of the entire youth constituency of JONAPWD, I stand in deep gratitude and admiration. We have lost a visionary leader, a compassionate statesman, and a firm advocate for the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. General Buhari was not just a president, he was a true champion of inclusion.
What specifically did his administration do for Nigerians with disabilities?
His tenure marked a historic turning point. For the first time, over 35 million Nigerians with disabilities received legislative, institutional, and moral recognition. He proved that disability inclusion is not about charity; it is about rights, justice, and development.
Can you highlight any specific policy or law he signed that made a difference?
Absolutely. One of his most impactful decisions was signing the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018 into law. It criminalised discrimination and mandated public institutions to provide accessible services. That Act remains one of the boldest legal instruments in our journey toward liberation.
Beyond the law, what structures were put in place to enforce or implement disability policies?
President Buhari established the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), the first federal institution dedicated solely to coordinating disability affairs. This gave us not just a voice, but a seat at the national table where decisions are made.
Did his administration provide direct opportunities to persons with disabilities?
Yes, and that’s very important to note. Under his leadership, we saw increased access to government employment, skill acquisition programmes, and interventions like N-Power. These were not mere token efforts many of our members benefited and gained dignity, confidence, and self-reliance.
Were persons with disabilities given leadership roles under Buhari’s administration?
Yes. He appointed persons with disabilities into key government positions. This was a major shift. It showed trust in our capacity and aligned with our mantra: “Nothing About Us Without Us”. For once, inclusion became action, not just rhetoric.
What does his legacy mean to you and the JONAPWD youth community?
His legacy is indelible. He served with compassion and stood with the oppressed. He uplifted the marginalized and laid a solid foundation for disability inclusion. History will remember him as the president who brought visibility, dignity, and legislation to the disability community.
How does the JONAPWD youth leadership intend to sustain his legacy?
We are committed to protecting the rights his leadership secured. We’ll continue advocating, educating, and pushing for an even more inclusive Nigeria. His work is our call to action.
What would be your message to current and future leaders of Nigeria?
Learn from Buhari’s example. Inclusion is not optional, it is a fundamental right. Leaders must continue to break barriers and ensure no Nigerian is left behind, regardless of ability.
Finally, how do you think history will remember General Muhammadu Buhari?
He will be remembered as a president who recognised the humanity of every Nigerian. He gave us voice, law, dignity, and hope. We will forever be grateful.