In a powerful joint call to action, the High Commission of Canada to Nigeria and the office of the First Lady's Renewed Hope Initiative have urged for a significant boost in the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) across all facets of Nigerian society. The appeal was made on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, during a special exhibition held at the Canadian official residence in the Maitama district of Abuja.
Art as a Catalyst for Change
The event, titled “Expressions of Ability”, served as the platform for this crucial advocacy. It prominently featured the extraordinary artwork of Kanyeyachukwu, a Guinness World Record holder who has defied expectations associated with autism. His captivating creations not only drew admiration from guests but also sparked deep conversations about ability, resilience, and the urgent need to dismantle societal barriers.
Canada's High Commissioner to Nigeria, Pasquale Salvaggio, set the tone in his welcome address. He celebrated the immense value, creativity, and leadership that individuals with disabilities contribute to communities. However, he candidly acknowledged that stigma and persistent obstacles in education, employment, and protection remain a daily reality for many.
“His work serves as a powerful reminder that neurodiversity and creativity are strengths that enhance our communities,” Salvaggio stated, referring to Kanyeyachukwu's art. He commended Nigeria's progress since the passage of the 2018 Disability Act but emphasised that challenges in enforcement, accessibility, and inclusive education—especially for women and children—require continued focus.
A Commitment from the Presidency
Representing the First Lady's Renewed Hope Initiative, Dr. Adebayo Benjamins-Laniyi, the pioneer Secretary for Women Affairs and Children in the Federal Capital Territory, underscored the importance of deliberate policy implementation. She linked the power of art directly to a call for governmental action, stressing that inclusion must be a priority.
Dr. Adebayo revealed significant strides at the national level, noting that President Bola Tinubu has established the Disability Commission and is committed to fully implementing the Disability Act nationwide. “For the first time, Nigeria celebrated World Disability Day on a national scale across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory,” she announced.
She also highlighted an ongoing collaboration with the World Bank to profile the Act's implementation across the FCT's six area councils, 62 wards, and 884 communities. Praising Kanyeyachukwu's global recognition, she called for more community support for parents and safe spaces for individuals with disabilities to thrive.
The Path Forward: From Advocacy to Action
The exhibition culminated in a unified message: disability rights are fundamental human rights. High Commissioner Salvaggio reaffirmed Canada's dedication, both at home and through international partnerships like this one, to advance accessibility, strengthen social support, and ensure resources and protections for PWDs.
The event successfully turned a celebration of artistic expression into a robust dialogue on systemic change. It underscored a shared commitment between Canada and Nigeria to build a society that not only accommodates but truly values every individual, fostering an environment where everyone has the opportunity to realise their full potential.
