The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has called for increased government support and investment in assistive technologies to improve access for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria.
The call was made on Thursday during the commemoration of the 2026 World Day for Assistive Technology held at the School for Arabic Studies (SAS), Kano.
Speaking at the event, CITAD’s PWD Coordinator, Hamza Aminu Fagge, said assistive technology remains critical to inclusion and equal participation of persons with disabilities.
According to him, the theme of this year’s celebration, “Unlocking Opportunities,” highlights the role of assistive devices in reducing barriers in education, employment and governance.
“Assistive technology is essential for enabling persons with disabilities to participate fully in education, employment, governance and other aspects of society,” he said.
Fagge noted that many persons with disabilities remain excluded from digital opportunities due to accessibility challenges.
During a presentation on assistive technology for persons with albinism, Mariya Ishaq of the Albinism Association of Nigeria highlighted the importance of visual aids and protective tools.
She listed commonly used devices and materials to include magnifying glasses, hand magnifiers, visual aids, sunshades, umbrellas, protective clothing and sunscreen creams.
“These tools significantly improve learning, mobility, safety and the overall quality of life of persons with albinism,” she said.
Participants raised concerns over the high cost of visual aids and other assistive devices, urging government authorities to make them more affordable and accessible.
Also speaking, Vice Principal of the Special Education School (SES), Tudun Maliki, Ibrahim Abdulkarim, called for local production of assistive technologies to reduce dependence on imported devices.
He showcased several devices used by visually impaired persons, including the Hable One, Ultra Cane and audio readers.
“There is a need for local innovation and the development of affordable assistive technologies that can be produced within Nigeria rather than relying solely on imported devices,” Abdulkarim stated.
He also called for increased public awareness to address discrimination against persons with disabilities and appealed for support to tackle the shortage of Braille paper in special education schools.
A panel discussion on access to assistive technology identified barriers including poverty, high costs, weak implementation of disability-related policies, inadequate digital inclusion and low public awareness of disability rights.
Participants advocated increased investment in locally manufactured assistive technologies and recommended higher government budgetary allocation for assistive devices, removal of import duties, establishment of assistive technology resource centres and stronger implementation of disability-inclusive policies.
In his closing remarks, CITAD’s Human Resource Officer, Muhammad Sani Sa’idu, said assistive technology should be treated as a necessity rather than a privilege.
“Assistive technology should not be viewed as a privilege but as a necessity that enables persons with disabilities to live independently, access education, secure employment, participate in governance and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.
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