NGO Blames Low Awareness For Stigma Against Children With Disabilities

By TAYO TAIWO (T.T.) OLUWOLE

EMPOWERING Abilities Through Inclusive Pages (EATIP), an EU-supported NGO, says low public awareness and limited representation fuel persistent stigma against Children With Disabilities (CWDs) in Nigeria.

Project Manager, Praise Akobo, raised the concern during an advocacy visit to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja. She noted that despite inclusive education policies and the 2018 Disability Act, parents, caregivers, and schools often lack adequate knowledge on disability rights and inclusion.

Akobo urged stronger media engagement to challenge stereotypes, promote awareness, and push for inclusive environments where CWDs can thrive. She called for dedicated disability reportage and continuous teacher training.

NAN’s Managing Director, Ali Muhammad Ali (represented by Editor-in-Chief, Mufutau Ojo), pledged media support, reaffirming NAN’s commitment to public interest journalism.