Nigerian Women with Disabilities Face Unique Challenges and Call for Inclusion

Nigerian women with disabilities are calling for increased support and inclusion as they face unique challenges in various aspects of their lives.

In a recent event organized by the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) to mark the International Women’s Day 2024, women with disabilities shared their experiences and highlighted the critical importance of prioritizing the rights, inclusion, and empowerment of women and girls with disabilities.

The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day, “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” aims to tackle economic disempowerment and address the compounded challenges faced by women with disabilities due to the intersection of gender and disability.

These challenges include heightened vulnerability to violence, social exclusion, and limited access to opportunities.

Women with disabilities in Nigeria face difficulties accessing funds and loans, as financial institutions often look down on them, assuming that their ventures may not thrive or that they may not be able to pay back the loans.

This lack of financial inclusion leads to a higher rate of single mothers in the disability community, as women with disabilities feel compelled to have children outside of wedlock due to societal pressures.

Access to health care services is also a significant challenge for women with disabilities, as they often do not receive adequate guidance and attention in government-owned hospitals.

Cultural norms and beliefs, as well as a patriarchal society, contribute to the discrimination and negative perception of women with disabilities.

Communication remains a major issue, as the number of interpreters is insufficient to meet the needs of women with disabilities.

There is a need for increased awareness and continuous sensitization to address these challenges and erase the negative stereotypes associated with disabilities.

Women with disabilities face various forms of discrimination and labeling, which can lead to depression and other mental health issues.

Governments, civil society organizations, and families must work together to create an enabling environment for equal opportunities and inclusive environments for women with disabilities.

Nigerian women with disabilities face unique challenges that require increased support and inclusion.

By addressing financial, health care, and communication barriers, as well as raising awareness and promoting education, society can work towards a future where women with disabilities are empowered, included, and able to thrive.