Climate Justice: Policy Gaps for Women with Disabilities in Nigeria
This report analyzes the disproportionate impact of climate change on women with disabilities in Nigeria, highlighting significant implementation gaps in the 2021 Climate Change Act. It identifies structural barriers such as data invisibility, inaccessible infrastructure, and ineffective early warning systems. The brief provides targeted policy recommendations to enhance inclusivity and resilience for this vulnerable group.
Policy Advocacy Brief
Climate Justice for Women with Disabilities in Nigeria
A strategic framework integrating YouPaD insights into national resilience planning, part of the WomenPower2030 Project funded by the European Union (EU) and Women Environmental Programme (WEP).
The Implementation Gap
Climate change in Nigeria isn't just a headline—it's a physical barrier. For women with mobility or sensory challenges, extreme weather strikes harder. While the 2021 Climate Change Act exists, the systems of warning and support often remain inaccessible.
47.1%
Unemployment rate among Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in high-risk regions.
Chronically Last
To receive emergency warnings due to prevalent sensory and communication barriers.
"We transform 'disability' from a barricade into a bridge by recognizing expertise and investing in resilience."
Structural Barriers & Gaps
Data Invisibility
National registries lack functional difficulty tracking, meaning relief resources rarely reach those with specific mobility needs.
Infrastructure Gap
Emergency shelters and markets lack universal design, effectively locking women out of safety and commerce during floods.
Warning Silence
Standard radio and digital alerts ignore the needs of those requiring sign language or simplified traditional percussion.
Policy Recommendations
Strategic actions to mandate inclusivity in Nigeria's climate response framework.
Inclusive Data Collection
Mandate disability-disaggregated data in all impact assessments to allow NEMA to map and protect the most vulnerable during disaster response.
Multi-Sensory Early Warning
Implement Native Sign Language on broadcasts and integrate traditional community percussion for local alerts.
Green Skills Training
Tailor 'Green' economic transitions to respect unique needs, providing tools for resilient, home-based market activities.
Young Professionals in Policy and Development
YouPaD
Advocating for a seat at the decision-making table. We believe including the voices of those most affected builds a more resilient Nigeria for everyone.
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