UNICAL Vice Chancellor Urges Nigerian Government to Prioritize Disability Rights Through Implementation of Disability Act

UNICAL Vice Chancellor Urges Nigerian Government to Prioritize Disability Rights Through Implementation of Disability Act

Professor Florence Banku, Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, has called on all levels of government in Nigeria to prioritize the needs of people living with disabilities by fully implementing the Disability Act. She made this appeal during her address at the 1st National Colloquium/Conference on Special Needs Education, held in honor of Professor Emeka Desmond Ozoji at the University of Calabar.

The conference, themed “Nigerian Special Needs Education in Search of an Identity,” attracted leading figures in the field, who deliberated on the future prospects for individuals with disabilities and the importance of recognizing their rights through the creation and enforcement of a Disability Act in Nigeria.

In her speech, Professor Banku emphasized that special needs education is not just a concern for professionals and those living with disabilities, but for society as a whole, as anyone could be affected. She cited the example of renowned author, Professor Chinua Achebe, who became disabled later in life, and urged altruistic individuals and corporate bodies to support the full implementation of the Disability Act, which would help people with disabilities integrate more effectively into society.

In her tribute to the honoree, Professor Emeka Desmond Ozoji, Professor Banku lauded him as a distinguished academic, dedicated professional, and prolific writer. She highlighted his invaluable contributions to special needs education in Nigeria and his role as a mentor to many, including herself.