Persons with disabilities, advocates call for cheaper assistive devices across Nigeria

Persons with disabilities (PWDs) and disability advocates voiced concerns about the increasing cost of assistive technologies in Nigeria.

The concerns were raised during the 2026 World Day for Assistive Technology celebration, organized by the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) at the School for Arabic Studies (SAS) in Kano.

They urged governments at all levels to make essential devices more affordable and accessible.

Participants noted that many PWDs cannot access education, employment, or digital services because they cannot afford assistive devices such as visual aids, Braille materials, and mobility tools.

During a presentation on assistive technology for persons with albinism, Mariya Ishaq of the Albinism Association of Nigeria highlighted the importance of devices and protective materials that improve learning, mobility, and safety.

She listed commonly used aids—magnifying glasses, hand magnifiers, visual aids, sunshades, umbrellas, protective clothing, and sunscreen creams—emphasizing how these tools significantly enhance the quality of life for people with albinism.

Participants lamented that the high cost of these devices keeps them out of reach for many vulnerable individuals, especially in rural communities.

Also speaking, the Vice Principal of the Special Education School (SES), Tudun Maliki, Ibrahim Abdulkarim, called for greater support for PWDs through local production of assistive technologies.

He argued that manufacturing such devices in Nigeria would lower costs and reduce dependence on imports.

He also highlighted the shortage of Braille paper in special education schools and urged urgent intervention.

The stakeholders urged government authorities to increase budgetary allocations for assistive devices, eliminate import duties on relevant equipment, establish assistive technology resource centres, and strengthen the implementation of disability‑inclusive policies.

Earlier, CITAD’s PWD coordinator, Hamza Aminu Fagge, described assistive technology as a vital tool for promoting inclusion and equal participation of persons with disabilities in society.

He said assistive devices play a crucial role in enabling PWDs to access education, employment, governance, and other opportunities, stressing that many remain excluded due to accessibility challenges.