The Policy Dialogue on “Disability-Inclusive Business Enabling Environment (BEE) Reforms and Skills Development for Business Groups with Disabilities in Plateau State” successfully took place on 5 June 2025 at the New Government House, Jos.
Co-hosted by the Plateau State Disability Rights Commission (DRC) in collaboration with PS-OSIC and PLASMIDA, with technical support from GIZ-SEDIN, the dialogue brought together stakeholders from government MDAs, private-sector regulators, civil society, development partners, and Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs).
The event provided a platform to explore how ongoing economic reforms, particularly in business regulation and skills development, can be made inclusive for persons with disabilities (PWDs). Key discussions focused on registration processes, regulatory frameworks, skills training, infrastructure, and finance for PWD-led MSMEs.
Participants highlighted successes, including efforts by agencies such as CAC, SON, NAFDAC, and PSIRS to simplify processes, as well as innovations by BUTEX, such as adapted agricultural tools and accessibility improvements. Challenges raised included the inaccessibility of public buildings, the need for assistive devices in rural areas, and gender-responsive employment opportunities.
A shared commitment emerged to:
• Conduct accessibility audits
• Scale inclusive TVET pathways
• Strengthen cross-agency coordination
• Enhance DRC’s leadership in disability inclusion
Key recommendations included reinstating the Disability Trust Fund, setting standards for accessible buildings, supporting disability-led small businesses, and sharing public information in accessible formats.
The dialogue concluded with a strong call to turn inclusive policies into well-funded, practical actions to ensure no one is left behind in Plateau State’s development.
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