NCC Pushes Digital Inclusion for Persons With Disabilities

The Nigerian Communications Commission has renewed its commitment to promoting digital inclusion for persons with disabilities, stressing the need to ensure that no segment of society is left behind in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.

The commission made this known through its collaboration with CBM International, an organisation working to promote inclusive development and improve the participation of persons with disabilities in society.

The initiative is aimed at addressing barriers that prevent people living with disabilities from fully accessing and benefiting from digital technologies and communication services.

The NCC emphasised that digital transformation should be designed to accommodate the needs of all citizens, including people with physical, sensory and other forms of disabilities.

As technology continues to influence education, employment, healthcare, financial services and social interaction, the commission noted that access to digital tools has become increasingly important for economic and social participation.

However, persons with disabilities continue to face challenges including limited access to appropriate digital devices, affordability concerns, inadequate digital skills and technological platforms that are not always designed with accessibility in mind.

The commission said greater collaboration among government institutions, private sector operators, civil society organisations and disability-focused groups would be necessary to address these challenges.

The partnership with CBM International is expected to contribute to efforts aimed at strengthening digital accessibility and creating opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate more actively in the digital economy.

The NCC also highlighted the importance of developing digital services and platforms that are accessible and user-friendly for people with different forms of disabilities.

Stakeholders have continued to call for stronger policies and practical measures that will bridge Nigeria’s digital divide and ensure that vulnerable groups benefit from technological advancement.

The commission’s renewed focus comes amid broader efforts to expand broadband connectivity, improve digital literacy and increase access to telecommunications services across the country.

The NCC said digital inclusion remains an important component of Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda, adding that technological development must translate into meaningful opportunities for every citizen.

It further stressed that creating an inclusive digital environment would help persons with disabilities gain better access to education, employment, entrepreneurship, public services and other opportunities.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to remove barriers and promote equal participation in Nigeria’s digital future.