As the world marks World Braille Day 2025 under the theme “Celebrating Accessibility and Inclusion for the Visually Impaired,” the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) Programme has reiterated its commitment to promoting inclusivity and accessibility for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
The EU-SDGN highlighted the need to break barriers and create an inclusive environment where every individual, regardless of physical abilities, can participate fully in democratic processes and public life.
In Nigeria, the EU-SDGN has been actively working to address these challenges through initiatives that prioritise accessible information and communication tools, capacity-building programmes for PWDs, and policy advocacy to strengthen frameworks that protect their rights.
Jake Epelle, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of TAF Africa, whose organisation is also a member of the EU-SDGN Cohort, emphasised the importance of accessibility in the democratic process.
He said that accessibility in electoral processes is not a privilege, but a fundamental right, and the EU-SDGN’s commitment to assessing and improving assistive devices is an important step towards ensuring that no one is left behind in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Epelle further noted, “The journey towards inclusivity requires consistent collaboration, innovation, and accountability. Through programmes like the EU-SDGN, we are not only advocating for change, but actively driving solutions that empower PWDs to contribute meaningfully to governance and public life.”
Meanwhile, as the world commemorates World Braille Day 2025, the EU-SDGN reaffirmed its dedication to building an inclusive and participatory democracy in Nigeria, where no one is excluded from the electoral process.