Journalists For Disability Inclusion Holds Inauguration In Abuja

jd41 — L-R: Deputy National Coordinator Journalists For Disability Inclusion (JD41), Mrs. Ruby Leo, National Coordinator, Mr. Emmanuel Ogbeche and President/Founder of the Albino Foundation, Mr. Jake Epelle at the inauguration of the national executives and members of J4DI held in Abuja On Thursday, 24 February 2022

By Kemi Yesufu

Twenty-seven journalists were on Thursday inaugurated as members and national executives of Journalists For Disabiity Inclusion(J4DI) in Abuja.

This association of journalists will be working to mainstream issues affecting Persons With Disability (PWD). Members of the association drawn from the print, electronic and online media have also committed to playing a major role in making laws and policies put in place to protect and make life better for persons with disabilities more effective.

National Coordinator of the association supported by the Albino Foundation (TAF) with the backing of the European Union/ British Council/ Agent for Citizens Driven Transformation Programme (EU/BC/ACT), Mr. Emmanuel Ogbeche, disclosed that the group will equally be focused on setting the agenda when it comes to policies at it relates with Persons With Disability.

Ogbeche who is the chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists FCT Council stated the importance of implementing the Discrimination Against Persons with Disability (Prohibition) Act 2018 in all the states of the federation.

He recalled a recent situation where leading political party was accused of sidelining a qualified candidate with disability in favour of another because of his disability, adding that such injustices must be brought to light and corrected.

“We must become agents of change, with this affirmation taken today, the change start with us”, he said.

President and founder of TAF, Mr. Jake Epelle, who gave the key note address at the event said that the long held dream of having a dedicated group of journalists who prioritise the coverage of all issues affecting PWDs has come to fruition.

Epelle called for trainings for reporters to better enhance expertise in the reportage of PWDs as well as a better understanding of the terminologies used in the community.

“Great things start small, and I am afraid of things that grow big without a base, because they will eventually become small, this is an opportunity to expand and become better. To make the kind of impact that we desire to see we need to be properly educated, have the right capacity and know the right terminology, so we can navigate the disability community”, he said.

See more pictures from the event bellow: