Hospitality spaces, hotels, restaurants, and event venues shape people’s experiences. But for many persons with disabilities, these places remain barriers, not welcoming destinations.

Inclusive hospitality isn’t just good service; it’s about dignity and equity. Globally, over 1 billion people live with some form of disability, and many face persistent barriers in travel and lodging. Inside Hospitality Solutions In Nigeria, the problem is especially acute: a study of hotels in Lagos found that many lack accessible physical infrastructure, while policies are not vigorously enforced. Theseus

Ignoring accessibility doesn’t just exclude a segment of society; it is a missed business opportunity. Research shows that inclusive design can differentiate hospitality brands and unlock new markets. According to design experts, investing in accessibility is not just compliance; it’s good business and social responsibility. Inside Hospitality Solutions.

AbilityX is spotlighting this issue in a major way. At its 2025 forum, the panel conversation is bringing together hospitality leaders, disability advocates, and policymakers to explore real-world solutions.

The forum will explore practical solutions such as:

• Integrating universal design principles into hotels, restaurants, and event centres
• Ensuring ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and clear signage in public spaces
• Training hospitality staff on disability etiquette and inclusive communication
• Encouraging hospitality brands to adopt accessibility audits and compliance frameworks
• Promoting inclusive tourism, making Nigeria and Africa more welcoming destinations
• Developing policies that enforce accessibility as a standard, not a privilegeJoin the Movement on December 2, 2025, at the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.

For partnerships, speaker opportunities, or general inquiries:
📧 info@ability-x.org
📧 info@projectenable.africa

Another area for conversation at Abilityx 1.0 is media and accessibility. Across Nigeria and Africa, the media landscape still falls short of ensuring that every voice is seen, heard, and represented.

The State of Disability Inclusion Report (SDIR) 2024 shows a significant digital gap. Only a small percentage of persons with disabilities have access to the internet, and only a limited number of digital platforms meet accessibility standards. verivafrica.com+2cdinclusionafrica.org+2

Meanwhile, many broadcast studios, newsrooms, websites, and social media channels remain inaccessible, lacking sign language interpretation, captions, audio descriptions, or designs that support assistive technology. In rural communities, these barriers are often even greater due to cost, technology limitations, and limited representation in media production. verivafrica.com+1

AbilityX 1.0 is stepping into this gap. This forum will convene media professionals, disability advocates, tech innovators, and policy actors to reimagine what inclusive media can and should be. Inclusive media is also a prerequisite for full participation in public life.

Through high-level conversations and solution-focused sessions, AbilityX will spotlight:

• Practical ways to integrate disability data into media systems
• Enforcement of digital accessibility standards
• Tools and innovations that make content more inclusive
• Opportunities to empower creators with disabilities
• Representation both behind and in front of the camera

AbilityX 1.0 is a movement toward an Africa where inclusive media becomes an everyday practice rather than an aspiration.

Join us on December 2, 2025, at the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, to discuss the development of truly inclusive media ecosystems.

For partnerships, participation, or media inquiries:

📧 info@ability-x.org | 📧 info@projectenable.africa

As the conversation on inclusion continues, we will consider one of the most pressing issues: healthcare. Scanning through the healthcare system in Nigeria, AbilityX 1.0 will shine a spotlight on healthcare inclusion and the urgent need for systems that serve everyone equitably.

The State of Disability Inclusion Report (SDIR) 2024 reveals that over 60% of persons with disabilities in Nigeria still struggle to access affordable and inclusive healthcare. Many hospitals remain inaccessible, lacking ramps, sign language interpreters, and disability-sensitive staff. In rural areas, persons with disabilities often travel long distances for basic care, without the mobility aids or support they need.

AbilityX is challenging this narrative. The forum will bring together policymakers, innovators, and advocates to explore how technology, data, and inclusive policies can transform healthcare delivery. Its message is clear: inclusive healthcare is not charity; it is a human right and the foundation for national development.

Through high-level dialogues and solution-driven discussions, AbilityX will highlight practical strategies for integrating disability data into health systems and enforcing accessibility standards across facilities.

AbilityX 1.0 is not just another forum; it’s a movement toward a Nigeria where no one is left behind because of a disability, where healthcare inclusion becomes not a promise, but a practice. Join us on December 2, 2025, at the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, to discuss the development of an inclusive healthcare system.

For partnerships, participation, or media inquiries:

info@ability-x.org | info@projectenable.africa

When conversations about disability inclusion arise, they often begin with accessibility, ramps, sign language, or assistive tools. But the real game-changer lies in financial inclusion. That’s one of the bold ideas driving AbilityX 1.0, Nigeria’s Future of Disability Inclusion Conference, happening on December 2, 2025, at the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.

Organized by Project Enable Africa, the conference will bring together innovators, policymakers, and disability advocates to explore how technology, data, and creativity can make inclusion not just a campaign, but a culture. At its heart is a crucial question: How do we sustain inclusion in Africa through financial empowerment?

For millions of persons with disabilities, access to finance is more than economic; it’s the key to independence and opportunity. Yet many financial systems remain out of reach. The State of Disability Inclusion Report (SDIR) 2024 highlights that several ATMs, banks, and products still fail to serve persons with disabilities equitably.

AbilityX 1.0 is set to change that narrative. Through innovation labs and high-level dialogues, it will spotlight practical solutions, accessible digital finance tools, inclusive policies, and sustainable models that bridge the gap between advocacy and action.

This is not just another conference; it’s a movement toward systems that empower every person to thrive. Join us on December 2, 2025, as we shape a future where inclusion lives in our economies, institutions, and everyday choices.

For partnerships, participation, or media inquiries:

📧 info@ability-x.org | info@projectenable.africa

Education is often called the great equalizer — a powerful transformational. Yet, for millions of persons with disabilities worldwide, access to quality education remains a distant dream. On this International Day of Education, we celebrate the progress made while calling for renewed efforts to ensure inclusive and equitable education for all, especially for persons with disabilities.

Inclusive education goes beyond merely enrolling students with disabilities in schools. It is about creating a system where every learner, regardless of ability, is welcomed, valued, and provided with the resources to thrive. This approach recognizes diversity as a strength and seeks to break down physical, social, and attitudinal barriers that hinder access to learning opportunities.

In Nigeria, persons with disabilities face significant barriers to accessing inclusive education, including:

1. Inadequate Infrastructure: Most schools in Nigeria lack basic facilities like ramps, accessible toilets, and adaptive furniture. Assistive devices such as braille machines, hearing aids, and screen readers are rarely available.
2. Teacher Training Gaps: Many Nigerian teachers lack the training to support students with disabilities. Few receive specialized instruction on adaptive teaching methods or how to work with diverse learners.
3. Cultural Stigma: Deep-rooted societal beliefs and misconceptions about disabilities often discourage families from enrolling their children in school. Some see children with disabilities as a “burden” rather than a source of potential.
4. Policy and Funding Deficiencies: While Nigeria has policies like the Disability Act and the National Policy on Inclusive Education, implementation remains weak. Inadequate funding means these policies often fail to translate into meaningful action on the ground.
5. Transportation Barriers: For many children with disabilities, the lack of accessible and affordable transportation makes getting to school a daily struggle, particularly in rural areas.
6. Limited Awareness: Both families and communities often lack information about available resources, rights, and opportunities for children with disabilities, resulting in low enrollment rates.

The Way Forward

To achieve inclusive education in Nigeria, all stakeholders must make concerted efforts. Here’s what can be done.

1. Invest in Infrastructure: Governments should prioritize accessible facilities and provide assistive technologies for schools.
2. Train Educators: Regular and mandatory teacher training programs on inclusive education should be implemented across Nigeria.
3. Promote Advocacy: Public awareness campaigns should challenge stigma and encourage families to support children with disabilities in accessing education.
4. Strengthen Policies Implementation: Nigeria should enforce existing policies, like the Disability Act, and allocate adequate funding to drive inclusive education initiatives.
5. Enhance Community Involvement: Collaboration with families, community leaders, and local organizations is critical to supporting and including children with disabilities.

As we commemorate the International Day of Education, let us remember that inclusive education is not a luxury but a necessity. It is the cornerstone of a fair and equitable society, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. By prioritizing the education of persons with disabilities, Nigeria can unlock the untapped potential of millions and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.

Together, we can build a world where no child is left behind — because education is for everyone.

Imagine being unable to check your bank balance, read your favorite news site, or order groceries online. For millions of people with disabilities, this is their daily reality when websites and applications are not designed with accessibility in mind. In a digital-first world, accessibility is often treated as an afterthought, but it should be a fundamental aspect of design, development, and content creation. Digital accessibility ensures everyone can participate fully in society, regardless of ability.

What is Accessibility?

Accessibility means recognizing that people interact with the world in diverse ways and ensuring no one is left behind. Digital accessibility refers to designing websites, apps, and content to accommodate people with visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive impairments. This includes alt text for images, keyboard navigability, sufficient color contrast, and video captions. However, accessibility benefits more than just persons with disabilities — it enhances experiences for older adults, people with temporary impairments, and those in challenging environments.

The Human Impact: Inclusion Matters

Digital accessibility isn’t about checking boxes — it’s about people. Around 15% of the global population lives with disabilities, and when digital products are inaccessible, these individuals are actively excluded. Consider a blind or visually impaired software developer who relies on a screen reader. Imagine a website lacks labeled buttons or alt text, it means the developer will be locked out of that digital space and his or her expertise becomes irrelevant — not because of her ability, but because of poor design.

Accessibility is a human rights issue. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities recognizes access to information and communication technologies as a basic human right. When digital spaces are inaccessible, it is not just inconvenience but discriminatory. From job applications to online shopping, accessibility barriers limit opportunities and exclude people from essential services.

The Business Case for Accessibility

Beyond moral arguments, accessibility also drives business success in several ways:

• Expanding Your Audience: Over 1 billion people are with disabilities. Making products and services accessible allows businesses to reach this often-overlooked market.
• Improving User Experience for All: Accessibility features, such as captions and clear navigation, benefit non-native speakers, busy professionals, and people in noisy environments.
• Boosting SEO and Performance: Practices like using descriptive alt text and clear headings improve search engine rankings and make websites easier to navigate.
• Avoiding Legal Risks: Many countries have accessibility laws, such as Nigeria- Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the European Accessibility Act (EAA). Noncompliance can lead to lawsuits, fines, and reputational damage.
• Driving Innovation: Many technologies, like voice assistants, were initially developed for accessibility but have become mainstream tools.

The Cost of Ignoring Accessibility

Some organizations hesitate to invest in accessibility due to perceived costs, but ignoring it comes with significant consequences:

• Lost Revenue: An inaccessible website turns away potential customers with disabilities, missing out on a sizable consumer base.
• Damage to Brand Reputation: In a socially conscious era, brands that neglect accessibility risk losing customer trust.
• Increased Development Costs: Retrofitting accessibility is far more expensive than integrating it from the start.

The Technical Reality

Making digital products accessible is easier than it seems. Modern web standards already include many accessibility features, but these must be implemented correctly. Key practices include:

• Using proper heading structures and semantic HTML
• Ensuring smooth keyboard navigation
• Providing alternative text for images
• Maintaining sufficient color contrast
• Supporting screen readers with ARIA labels when necessary

When accessibility is built into a project from the beginning, the effort required is minimal compared to the benefits.

How to Make Accessibility a Priority

To treat accessibility as a must-have, organizations should take these steps:

1. Educate Your Team: Ensure designers, developers, and content creators understand accessibility and know how to implement best practices.
2. Follow Accessibility Standards: Use guidelines like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) to meet global standards.
3. Test with Real Users: Involve persons with disabilities in the testing process to identify and remove barriers.
4. Integrate Accessibility Early: Build accessibility into every stage of the design and development process.
5. Foster a Culture of Inclusion: Make accessibility a core organizational value, celebrate progress and continuously improve.

The Cultural Shift

The biggest barrier to accessibility is not technical — it is cultural. Organizations must shift from viewing accessibility as a burden to recognizing it as an opportunity for innovation and inclusion. This includes:

• Including accessibility requirements in project specifications
• Training teams on accessibility best practices
• Testing with users who have disabilities
• Celebrating accessibility wins and learning from failures
• Making accessibility a shared responsibility across teams

As our world becomes increasingly digital, equal access is not just a gesture — it is a fundamental right. Organizations that prioritize accessibility will serve their users better and also position themselves for long-term success in an inclusive digital future.

Conclusion

Accessibility is not just the responsibility of developers and designers — it is a shared responsibility. Whether writing a blog post, creating social media content, or designing a new app, everyone has the power to make their work accessible. Delaying accessibility means excluding potential users, customers, and contributors.

Accessibility is not only about disability — it is about usability for everyone. Designing for accessibility means designing for all of humanity’s diverse needs and capabilities. It is not a luxury — it is essential for building a truly inclusive digital world. By treating accessibility as a must-have, we create a more equitable, innovative, and inclusive society.

What steps will you take today to make your platforms more accessible? Share your thoughts in the comments — we’d love to hear your ideas and experiences!

Written by Cynthia Abu, IT Business Analyst

International White Cane Safety Day, celebrated annually on October 15, recognizes the vital role of white canes in promoting independence and mobility for persons with visual impairment or blindness. The white cane is more than just a tool; it symbolizes empowerment, granting persons with visual impairment the ability to navigate the world around them safely and independently.

The white cane serves two primary purposes:

• It helps the user detect obstacles, changes in terrain, and potential hazards while signaling to others that the person using it has a visual impairment.
• It is a universally recognized tool that raises awareness about the challenges visually impaired persons experience and promotes their right to move freely and safely in society.

There are different types of white canes designed for specific uses. For instance,

• The long cane is for general mobility and navigation while
• Some canes have electronic sensors that enhance mobility in complex environments.

On International White Cane Safety Day, we celebrate the achievements of our visually impaired fellows and acknowledge their impact on society. As an organization, we advocate for improved accessibility, inclusion, and safety in public spaces. This celebration reminds us of the importance of creating an inclusive world where everyone can move confidently and independently, regardless of their abilities.

As we commemorate this day, let’s continue to raise awareness, improve accessibility, and support innovations that further empower persons with visual impairments.

Happy International White Cane Safety Day!

Project Enable Africa proudly announces the successful completion of its Business Support Program, this was implemented in support of the Ishk Tolaram Foundation. This program was designed to provide business training, mentorship and access to business resources to PWD-led businesses in Lagos States to re-invent their businesses and help them remain viable despite recurring business challenges.

This initiative brought together 20 determined and innovative entrepreneurs with disabilities, providing them with the tools, resources, and mentorship necessary to develop and scale their businesses. The comprehensive program featured a series of training sessions, and one-on-one mentorship opportunities, all aimed at fostering entrepreneurial skills and promoting inclusive economic growth for this vulnerable group.

The program commenced on May 7, 2024 with an onboarding session and with days of thought provoking sessions on different entrepreneur strategic sessions culminating in an inspiring exhibition and certification ceremony on Friday, May 17, 2024.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, the participants shared insights into the 2-week-long program, revealing that the 20 businesses led by individuals with disabilities underwent intensive training. They narrated how the practical business skills gained from the program would scale their business. The business skills covered includes human design thinking, business formalization, product development strategies, funding linkages, legal strategy, human resource management, digitalisation, and financial management.

Representing the Executive Director, The COO Olalekan Owonikoko gave a goodwill message to the entrepreneurs at the exhibition ground and encouraged them to utilized all they have learnt in growing their business.

Finally, the Business Support Program for Persons with Disabilities in Lagos has made significant strides in empowering individuals with disabilities to pursue entrepreneurship and achieve economic independence.

Project Enable Africa is a community development initiative that was founded in 2014 to advocate for the rights and empowerment of persons with disabilities in Nigeria. Project Enable envisions an African continent that is inclusive for persons with disabilities to prosper as we believe that everyone deserves a good quality life and that no one should be discriminated against on the account of their disability.

Project Enable Africa is dedicated to empowering persons with disabilities, championing their rights, and creating an inclusive society where every ability is celebrated. To date, 5,000 persons with disabilities have been reached, 500 youth with disabilities connected to jobs, 50 disability-confident organizations impacted and 1,000 entrepreneurs supported.

It is often challenging for women with disabilities to receive recognition, acceptance, and inclusion in a world where societal norms dictate standards of beauty, success, and capability. Despite these obstacles, their resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit have forged a path of empowerment and inspiration that deserves recognition and celebration. Women with disabilities face many barriers, stereotypes, and misconceptions. From physical accessibility challenges to societal stigmatization and limited opportunities, they encounter hurdles that can hinder their ability to thrive and contribute fully to society. However, it is their response to these challenges that truly defines their strength and resilience.

Rather than succumb to societal expectations, women with disabilities are rewriting the narrative and reshaping perceptions. They challenge the status quo, advocating for their rights, and demanding equal access to education, employment, healthcare, and social opportunities. Their voices are becoming increasingly amplified, catalyzing change and inspiring others to join the fight for inclusion and equality. Eucharia Nkire, a lady with a physical disability, shared her story which clearly describes her resilience amid a myriad of uncertainty and societal stigmatization. According to her “Due to my physical challenge, I was not selected for any position after attending several interviews. Sadly, most organizations in Nigeria are not disability-inclusive, and there is low awareness of disability inclusion in Nigeria. In 2021, I participated in the Youth Employment Program at Project Enable Africa. After training and internship opportunities, I gained full-time employment at Unilever Nigeria Plc as a Procurement Officer. Another fellow with albinism who participated in one of our programs, Nwandu Annabelle Chidinma, reported her experience as a CXC Analyst Intern at International Breweries, as enriching and filled with opportunities to learn. Chidinma is one out of 20 women with disabilities who have been given an opportunity to express her potential.

Despite what women with disabilities are doing to break barriers for themselves, a significant portion of their population still faces multiple forms of discrimination and barriers to inclusion. They experience intersectional discrimination that exposes them to inadequate healthcare services and barriers to economic empowerment. These obstacles perpetuate cycles of poverty and exclusion, further marginalizing women with disabilities from mainstream society. To achieve true equality and inclusion, it is imperative to address these systemic barriers and create environments that empower and support women with disabilities. For example, Gbemisola Ijigbamigbe, a lady with physical disability testifies of how Radisson Blu has been accommodating of her disability and her zeal towards learning. ‘My experience has been a great one,one with lots of perseverance and patience (had to learn more because of my role with guests). I’ve also learnt to be proactive and think outside the box. Working in the hospitality industry, especially a renowned hotel like Radisson Blu has taught me that sometimes all that glitters isn’t gold. I’ve had the good, the bad, and the exciting moments. But most importantly, I am glad I chose Radisson Blu and Radisson Blu chose me.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day and reflect on the theme of inclusivity and empowerment, let us commit ourselves to changing the perspective of how society sees women with disabilities. Let us amplify their voices, champion their rights, and create opportunities for them to thrive and succeed. Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable world where women, regardless of their abilities, are celebrated, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Moreover, celebrating women with disabilities is about acknowledging their humanity, dignity, and inherent worth. It’s about embracing diversity, fostering empathy, and building inclusive communities where everyone feels valued, respected, and accepted for who they are. The story of Hilda Udemeh, a visually impaired lady, is another that has proven that women with disabilities should be acknowledged as humans before the disability. In her words, ‘It has been a fabulous time working with Sterling Bank as one of the HR Officers in employee engagement and culture. I am learning on the job and it has been exciting to add value to a prestigious organization like Sterling Bank. Indeed, it’s a great place to work.’ By changing the narrative and challenging stereotypes, we can create a society that celebrates differences and recognizes diversity’s inherent beauty and strength.

On International Women’s Day, we reaffirm our commitment as an organization to promoting the rights and inclusion of women with disabilities. This includes advocating for policy reforms that protect their rights, provide accessible and inclusive services and programs, and challenge stereotypes and prejudices that perpetuate discrimination. By working together to create a more inclusive and equitable society, we can ensure that all women, regardless of their abilities, have the opportunity to thrive and contribute to building a better world for future generations.

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY!

www.projectenable.africa

info@projectenable.africa

+234–805–459–5958

Lagos, Nigeria, March 8, 2024 — Stanforte Edge Ltd/Gte is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Oluwayemisi Adekunle to its Board of Directors, and the Advisory Board of Project Enable Africa. With over two decades of experience in Public Relations and Stakeholders’ Engagement, Yemisi brings a wealth of expertise to the organization’s leadership team.

In her new role, Yemisi will provide strategic governance and leadership in the areas of Public Relations and Stakeholders Engagement, further advancing Project Enable Africa’s mission of promoting shared prosperity for underserved populations across Africa.

Oluwayemisi is a seasoned Pan African Public Relations & Affairs Strategist with extensive experience designing and implementing strategies that position leading organizations as consumer brands of choice. Leading cross-functional teams, she has demonstrated the ability to engage private/public sector stakeholders, design policies, and spearhead initiatives that foster strategic alliances, position market leaders, and increase revenue. She is a graduate of English from the University of Ilorin and has further homed in on her craft by acquiring local and international certifications and recognition from the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) United Kingdom, Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) United Kingdom, National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN), Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON).

Throughout her career, Yemisi has been a firm advocate of empowerment, lending her expertise to non-profit organizations such as the Cherie Blair Foundation, Women In Successful Career {WISCAR} and Women in Management Business (WIMBIZ) to identify, develop, and nurture talent across various commercial sectors. Some of her notable achievements include improving Pfizer’s reputation and brand awareness during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading communication strategies for Sickle Cell Disease in Emerging Markets, and spearheading agreements and media relations announcements for Accord for a Healthier World across Africa.

“We are thrilled to welcome Yemisi to our Board of Directors,” said Olusola Owonikoko, Founder and Executive Director of Stanforte Edge. “Her extensive experience and proven track record in Public Relations and Stakeholders Engagement will be invaluable as we continue to drive positive change and advocate for disability inclusion across Africa.”

Yemisi’s appointment underscores Project Enable Africa’s commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within its leadership team and throughout its programs and initiatives.

Please join us in welcoming Yemisi Adekunle to the Project Enable Africa family.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Allen Abu

Communications Lead

admin@stanforteedge.com

www.ProjectEnable.Africa

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