Stakeholders commend EU for PWD advocacy project, decry US funding cuts

The federal government and other stakeholders have commended the European Union (EU) for launching the Disability Rights Advocacy Project in Abuja.

The three-year initiative, co-funded by the EU in partnership with Christian Blind Mission (CBM), follows funding cuts by the Donald Trump-led US federal government.

Ayuba Gufwan, executive secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), said the EU intervention is vital.

“This is a very commendable initiative. As it spans three years, we hope to see full participation of all persons with disabilities,” he said.

Gufwan lamented the withdrawal of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) from global interventions, noting how Trump’s ‘America First’ policy could prove challenging for developing nations.

“Though USAID was doing important work, we must not abandon our responsibilities because external funding has ceased,” he added.

He encouraged African leaders to plug the humanitarian aid gap.

“It’s time for us to look inward, re-strategise, and prioritise solutions that come from within. This could be a blessing in disguise,” Gufwan said.

Jack Epelle, founder of The Albino Foundation, described the US funding cut as a wake-up call.

“It’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, we must stop relying entirely on development aid,” he said.

“On the other, ongoing projects and jobs are now at risk.”

Bright Ekweremadu, head of programme implementation at CBM Global, commended the EU for the timely support.

“In times like this, when other major funders have withdrawn, the EU has stepped in to fill a critical gap,” he said.

Wynyfred Egbuson, representing the EU, outlined the rigorous selection process for the initiative.

“CBM and its partners were selected from 31 applications through a rigorous three-stage assessment process,” she said.

With over 25 million Nigerians living with disabilities, she called for sustained efforts to combat stigma and exclusion.