In commemoration of International Workers’ Day, Project Enable Africa brought together key stakeholders from across sectors to push forward the agenda of workplace inclusion for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria.

Since 2024, Project Enable Africa has used the annual celebration not just to recognize the contributions of workers but also to champion equal opportunities for PWDs in the workforce.

This year’s gathering marked the second edition of the organization’s Workers’ Day event, convening participants from government institutions, private corporations, the development sector, and the business community—including notable voices from the entertainment, hospitality, and finance industries.

Recent findings presented at the Global Disability Summit 2025 reveal that the underemployment of PWDs in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria could be costing as much as 7% of gross domestic product (GDP). Beyond this significant economic implication, the data underscores the broader untapped potential of inclusive employment.

The forum facilitated open dialogue between decision-makers and persons with disabilities, sparking honest reflections and fresh ideas for building more inclusive workspaces.

Participants shared lived experiences and practical strategies to ensure workplaces are not only accessible but truly empowering for all.

Delivering the opening address, Ms. Oluwayemisi Adekunle, a board member at Project Enable

Africa, drew attention to the systemic exclusion faced by PWDs.

“Persons with disabilities continue to face systemic exclusion, especially in opportunities to access decent and fulfilling work, limiting their potential for financial mobility, prosperity and this sadly often reinforces a cycle of poverty,” she said.

Representing Radisson Hotel, General Manager Mr. Yehia Elmansoury delivered a goodwill message, reaffirming the hotel’s commitment to equitable hiring practices.

He stated that “embracing inclusivity not only embraces social responsibility but also enriches the organisation’s structure and productivity.”

A key segment of the event featured a panel discussion titled “Bridging the Gap: Advancing Workplace Policies for Disability Inclusion”.

Moderated by disability rights advocate Ms. Tobiloba Ajayi, the session spotlighted challenges and opportunities in inclusive hiring.

“While there are approximately 18 million PWDs of working age in Nigeria, only 54,000 are gainfully employed, highlighting a major gap in the demand for PWDs in the formal sector,” she noted.

Other panelists echoed the urgent need for action. Barrister Lukman Salami Bolarinwa, Chairman of JONAPWD Lagos State Chapter, stressed that inclusive hiring should not be mistaken for charity.

“Investing in the employability of PWDS is not charity. It is smart economics,” he said.

“Inclusive employment policies, targeted skills training, and better access to financial tools can unlock potential, drive innovation, and increase household incomes for PWDs.”

Adding a personal perspective, Ms. Chidinma Annabel Nwandu, an alumna of Project Enable Africa and current employee at International Breweries, emphasized the responsibility of PWDs in preparing for opportunities.

“Persons with disabilities must also be intentional about upskilling themselves to make a meaningful impact when given an opportunity to work,” she said.

Closing the event, Acting Executive Director of Project Enable Africa, Mr. Olalekan Owonikoko, issued a call to action.

“The time for dialogue has passed—what’s needed now is action, accountability, and sustained investment in inclusive practices that leave no one behind,” he declared.