In a bid to empower and strengthen the entrepreneurial capacity of the persons with disabilities, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), in collaboration with Sightsavers Nigeria, successfully hosted a two-day Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Clinic for entrepreneurs with disabilities.
Held at Exclusive Serene Hotel, Abuja, the event brought together participants from various disability clusters across the country, marking a significant step towards economic empowerment, equity, and inclusion.
The SME Clinic aimed to strengthen the entrepreneurial capacity of persons with disabilities (PWDs), providing them with the tools, knowledge, and networks required to thrive in the Nigerian economy.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, reaffirmed the Commission’s unwavering commitment to creating an enabling environment where entrepreneurs with disabilities can thrive without barriers.
He acknowledged the vital role of Sightsavers Nigeria in supporting the initiative, commending their dedication to improving the wellbeing of PWDs in Nigeria.
“Our goal is to ensure that persons with disabilities are not just included but empowered to be self-reliant contributors to the nation’s economy,” Hon. Gufwan stated.
In her remarks, the Country Advocacy Coordinator, at Sightsavers Nigeria,Mrs Esther Bature, emphasised the broader impact of inclusive economic initiatives.
“SMEs are the backbone of any economy. By supporting persons with disabilities to become successful entrepreneurs, we’re not only fostering personal development but also driving job creation, innovation, and community resilience,” she noted.
Representing the Minister of Labour and Employment, Mrs. Ngozi Florence Onyeani, Director of Labour and Social Security, delivered a goodwill message, applauding the NCPWD and Sightsavers for organizing the clinic.
She stated that the initiative aligns with the Ministry’s mandate to promote inclusive employment and socio-economic empowerment for all Nigerians, particularly vulnerable populations like PWDs.
Participants engaged in interactive sessions and received business advisory services from key agencies including the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), and other stakeholders.
The clinic concluded with participants sharing their experiences and the challenges they face in growing their businesses. Stakeholders unanimously reaffirmed their commitment to working with the NCPWD to build inclusive, economically active, and empowered communities of persons with disabilities across Nigeria.