In Nigeria, the concept of disability inclusion has gained popularity, becoming a trend among government agencies and organizations that often present a facade of progress by launching elaborate policies and showcasing figures like wheelchair users at public events. However, the reality for millions of Nigerians living with disabilities diverges sharply from these optics; their everyday experiences reflect a society that remains largely disconnected from genuine inclusivity. The initiatives are more about achieving a visible acknowledgment rather than effecting meaningful change in power dynamics and systemic representation.

The central issue at hand is the contrast between the superficial commitments made by institutions and the actual lived experiences of those with disabilities. While laws and policies exist, they often lack the substance needed for real empowerment, resulting in a situation where persons with disabilities are noticed but not genuinely integrated into decision-making processes. The rhetoric of inclusion does not translate into authentic improvements in their lives, leaving them to struggle for recognition, trust, and authority in their own affairs.

Therefore, the call to action in Nigeria shifts from merely having the right frameworks in place to ensuring that individuals with disabilities hold true ownership over the narratives and systems that impact their daily realities. Until societal and institutional attitudes evolve to prioritize the voices and leadership of people with disabilities, the notion of inclusion will remain merely a symbolic exercise, disconnected from the real needs and rights of this marginalized group.