Mohammed Abba Isa: A Tireless Advocate for Disability Rights and Job Creation

By Mohammed Bello Doka 

Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, has emerged as a steadfast champion for disability rights, inclusivity, and economic empowerment. His efforts, marked by transparency, determination, and an unwavering focus on equal opportunities, have brought a new level of advocacy for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) across Nigeria. As he continues to push forward with numerous initiatives, Abba Isa’s work is reshaping the landscape for PWDs and demonstrating the government’s commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility.

Abba Isa has been vocal about the urgent need to uphold the National Disability Act and ensure accessibility for PWDs. At a media parley organized by Hon. Bashir Dawodu, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Disability, Abba Isa emphatically reaffirmed his stance, warning that any attempts by individuals or institutions to infringe upon accessibility rights would not be tolerated. His determination was evident as he read out strong warnings against the violation of PWD rights, reinforcing that the denial of access to public buildings or opportunities for PWDs would be met with firm action.

Under Abba Isa’s guidance, the awareness surrounding the National Disability Act has expanded significantly. He has championed efforts to decentralize information about the Act, urging awareness campaigns at state and local government levels. This drive aims to reach the underserved rural communities where a significant portion of PWDs reside, often disconnected from essential information and services. His call for a decentralized approach emphasizes the need for the Disability Act to be fully understood and implemented even in Nigeria’s remotest regions.

One of Abba Isa’s most commendable achievements is his work in job creation. His engagement with Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State led to the immediate implementation of the National Disability Act’s 5% employment quota for PWDs. Within a week of Abba Isa’s advocacy, 15 PWDs were employed in Borno State, marking a milestone achievement and a testament to Abba Isa's unwavering dedication to inclusivity and equality in employment. His advocacy has also extended to other federal programs, with the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) increasing Conditional Cash Transfer slots for PWDs under his influence.

The impact of Abba Isa’s relentless advocacy is also seen in his partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN). His efforts secured a remarkable 1,000 slots across six states for the Conditional Cash Grant program, offering essential financial support for PWDs. Through his negotiations, the office facilitated the inclusion of women with disabilities in the National Business Skills Development Initiative (NBSDI), where they received training in vocational skills and were equipped with startup kits and funds to establish their businesses. This move not only empowered these women but also promoted self-reliance and entrepreneurship among PWDs.

Beyond job creation, Abba Isa’s collaborations have opened doors for further governmental commitments. Recently, he secured the support of Dr. Jamila Ibrahim, the former Minister of Youth Development, to implement a 10% inclusion policy. This commitment mandates that 10% of all intervention programs under the Ministry of Youth Development be allocated to youths with disabilities, marking a significant step toward institutionalized inclusivity in federal programs.

One of the standout initiatives driven by Abba Isa is the Beyond Disability Project, launched by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on July 22, 2024. A flagship program from Abba Isa’s office, this project aims to transform the lives of over 5,000 PWDs and generate more than 36,551 job opportunities across Nigeria’s 36 states. The Beyond Disability Project is a monumental effort that signals the federal government’s commitment to fostering equal opportunities and economic empowerment for PWDs. It reflects Abba Isa’s tireless work in bringing national attention to the needs of PWDs and ensuring they are equipped for self-sufficiency and success.

Mohammed Abba Isa’s focus on inclusivity, transparency, and unyielding advocacy has become a beacon of hope for countless Nigerians with disabilities. His impact, both immediate and far-reaching, speaks to his dedication to social change and empowerment. Under his guidance, initiatives to uplift and support PWDs are no longer mere promises; they are evolving into tangible improvements in the lives of many. Abba Isa’s legacy is one of commitment, resilience, and transformation—an exemplary standard in the pursuit of a more inclusive Nigeria.