Reps Advocate for Tax Exemption for Persons with Disabilities, Call for Full Implementation of Disability Rights Act
The House of Representatives Committee on Disability Matters has called for tax exemptions for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and urged for the full implementation of the Disability Rights Act across Nigeria. Chairman of the committee, Bashiru Dawodu (APC, Lagos), made the appeal during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by Persons with Disability in Abuja, highlighting the challenges faced in enforcing the law and the need for inclusive policies to support the disabled community.
Challenges in Implementing the Disability Rights Act
Dawodu expressed concern over the slow implementation of the 2018 Disability Rights Act, which mandates that at least 5% of job recruitment in public and private sectors be allocated to persons with disabilities. He noted that despite the law’s potential to improve access to opportunities for PWDs, it has not been fully embraced by all states and organizations. “The Disability Rights Act is yet to be domesticated in several states, with only 22 states so far adopting it. This lack of implementation is a significant barrier to inclusivity,” Dawodu stated.
He also lamented the poor budgetary allocation to the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), describing the N2 billion allocated to the commission as insufficient. “The allocation of about N2 billion to the Disability Commission is indicative of how the government prioritizes the needs of persons with disabilities. We have fallen short of expectations,” he said.
Proposals for Tax Relief and Incentives
Dawodu called for tax exemptions for PWDs, arguing that they should not be burdened with tax payments given the additional challenges they face. He also proposed tax relief for companies that employ persons with disabilities or manufacture equipment used by them. “We are advocating for tax credits and waivers for companies that produce assistive devices and equipment for PWDs. This will encourage more businesses to support the disabled community,” he said.
Additionally, Dawodu emphasized the need for scholarships for teachers involved in special education and the establishment of a Disability Trust Fund to address the specific needs of PWDs. “Teachers in special education should be encouraged through scholarships, and a Disability Trust Fund should be created to cater to the interests of PWDs,” he added.
Amending the Disability Rights Act
The lawmaker disclosed that the House of Representatives is working on amending the Disability Rights Act to impose stricter penalties for non-compliance. He highlighted key provisions of the act, including the creation of accessible public buildings, transportation terminals, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. “We are pushing for amendments to ensure that the law is more effectively enforced and that violators face stringent penalties,” Dawodu said.
Collaboration with NGOs and Private Sector
Dawodu stressed the importance of collaboration with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the private sector to advance the rights and opportunities of PWDs. He noted that with over 35 million Nigerians living with disabilities, inclusive policies are essential for national development. “Nigeria will work better if the National Assembly, NGOs, and the private sector work together to support persons with disabilities,” he said.
MoU to Support PWDs Nationwide
The MoU signed during the event covers several initiatives aimed at improving the lives of PWDs. Valentine Ugochukwu Zion, Director of the PWD’s Potential Unhinged Project, outlined the key components of the agreement, including a nationwide medical access support initiative for underserved areas, talent discovery and development programs for PWDs in the creative arts, a reality TV show to showcase their resilience, and an inclusive musical concert.
“This MoU represents a significant step forward in addressing the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and creating opportunities for them to thrive,” Zion said.
A Call for Inclusive Policies
The event underscored the urgent need for inclusive policies and greater support for persons with disabilities in Nigeria. As the House of Representatives pushes for tax exemptions, stricter enforcement of the Disability Rights Act, and increased budgetary allocations, stakeholders are hopeful that these measures will lead to a more inclusive and equitable society for all Nigerians.
