To ensure the wellbeing of individuals with spinal cord injuries, Spinal Cord Injury Association of Nigeria (SCIAN) has launched a five-point institutional policy to address challenges facing Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Mr Yusuf Iyodo, SCIAN’s Technical Assistant, who presented the policy at a training organised in Lagos on Friday – yesterday, February 21 – said the policy would strengthen the body and offer support to its members.
The five-point policy includes child protection, protection from sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment, financial guidelines, and conduct of interest. Iyodo stressed the significance of ‘The Strategic Plan.’
He explained that the child protection policy was designed to ensure a safe environment for children with disabilities, adding that it is part of SCIAN’s broader goal to safeguard vulnerable individuals.
“These policies have been drafted and operationalised for immediate adoption. We are now conducting training for our members to ensure proper implementation,” Iyodo said.
Expectedly, the policy would attract donors, Iyodo, a lawyer noted, encouraging stakeholders and all philanthropic-minded individuals and groups to invest in SCIAN’s development.
While explaining that a budget for advocacy and data research has been allocated, Iyodo pointed out that a major portion of the budget is earmarked for establishing standard rehabilitation centres in Nigeria, which would eliminate the need to send patients abroad for treatment.
“If we have quality rehabilitation centres with the necessary equipment, patients can access treatment at subsidised rates, allowing for better rehabilitation and reintegration,” he said, explaining that the Strategic Plan identifies key stakeholders, including government, the private sector, donors, philanthropists, and development partners all of whom SCIAN plans to engage for support.
Women and children will receive more focus in SCIAN’s gender advocacy programme, given their vulnerability in society, Iyodo stressed, pointing out that women with disabilities face unique challenges.
“Surveys show that women with disabilities encounter double or even triple challenges compared to others with disabilities. Our policy aims to ensure they are not left behind,” he reiterated.
Mr Abdulwahab Matepo, SCIAN’s interim National President, stressed the importance of institutionalising policies to strengthen the governing structure of the association. This aligns with international best practices.
“To attract support from international NGOs, we must run SCIAN in the best possible way, respecting the rights of women, children, and workers,” Matepo emphasized, decrying the negative treatment of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) by the public and calling for greater awareness and inclusion.
