Lagos, Nigeria – May 3, 2024 – People with disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria are set to benefit from a new US-backed initiative aimed at fostering their entrepreneurial spirit. Project Enable Africa and the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities, disability rights advocates, joined forces with the US government to train 70 PWDs and equip them with seed funding to launch their own businesses.
The $30,000 project, launched on World Labour Day, targets Abia and Edo states. Participants will receive business skills training and resources to help them establish successful ventures.
“This initiative empowers PWDs to become financially independent and active members of society,” said Olushola Awonikoko, Project Enable’s executive director. “It allows them to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and even leadership roles.”
While Nigeria’s National Disability Act, enacted in 2019, guarantees equal opportunities for PWDs, implementation remains a challenge. The advocacy groups plan to work with state governments to improve enforcement of the law.
“Having the law is a positive step, but true progress lies in putting it into action,” stressed Awonikoko. “Many businesses still lack PWD employees. We’re advocating for a starting point of even 5%.”
Kola Olugbodi, a PWD himself and director at Project Enable, highlighted the issue of discrimination. “The biggest hurdle is prejudice,” he said. “Our physical limitations don’t define our capabilities. We have sharp minds and can deliver exceptional results.”
US Consul General in Nigeria, Will Stevens, echoed this sentiment. “Building inclusive societies is an ongoing process,” he stated. “This not only creates more opportunities for individuals, but also fuels economic growth and entrepreneurship.”
Project Enable has a history of success, having secured employment for PWDs at companies like Sterling Bank and Unilever. The organization expressed its appreciation for the US Consulate’s partnership.
“The US Consulate has been instrumental in supporting many of our projects,” said Olugbodi. “This new program has the potential to significantly improve the lives of many PWDs in Nigeria.”
 in Nigeria will receive a boost in their entrepreneurial endeavors thanks to a new US-funded initiative.){kind=link}