Project Abstract

Abstract
Human rights, especially in the context of persons with disabilities, have become increasingly significant in the 21st century. This research project focuses on Nigeria and explores the protection and promotion of the rights of persons with disabilities within the country. The rights of persons with disabilities have often been overlooked or violated, necessitating a closer examination of the current situation and potential improvements. In Nigeria, persons with disabilities face various challenges in accessing their basic human rights, including but not limited to education, healthcare, employment, and social inclusion. Discriminatory practices, lack of accessibility, and societal stigma contribute to the marginalization of this vulnerable population. Therefore, it is crucial to establish and enforce legal frameworks that safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities and ensure their equal participation in society. This research project employs a multidisciplinary approach to analyze the existing legal and policy frameworks concerning disability rights in Nigeria. By examining international human rights standards, national legislation, and government initiatives, the study aims to identify gaps and inconsistencies that hinder the effective protection of disability rights. Furthermore, the research explores the role of non-governmental organizations, civil society, and other stakeholders in advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities. Through empirical research methods such as surveys, interviews, and case studies, this project seeks to gather data on the lived experiences of persons with disabilities in Nigeria. By amplifying their voices and perspectives, the research aims to highlight specific challenges and obstacles they face in exercising their rights. Additionally, the study investigates the impact of cultural beliefs, traditions, and socioeconomic factors on the rights of persons with disabilities. The findings of this research project are expected to contribute valuable insights to the discourse on human rights in Nigeria, with a specific focus on persons with disabilities. By identifying key areas for improvement and recommending practical solutions, this study aims to support the development of inclusive policies and practices that uphold the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their abilities. Ultimately, the goal is to create a more equitable and just society where persons with disabilities can fully participate and thrive.

Project Overview

This study is divided into five chapters. Chapter one is a broad overview and layout of the research. It outlines the research project. This provides an overview of the essence of the research. It covers the background of the research, the statement of the problem, justification of the study, objectives of the study, hypothesis of the study, theoretical framework, literature review, methodology to be used and the limitations of the study.

Chapter two provides an in-depth understanding of the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocols. In addition, this chapter discusses the provisions of the Constitution of Nigeria, 2018, touching on the rights of persons with disability.

Chapter three gives an overview of the Persons with Disabilities Act and also touches on other Nigerian major pieces of legislation with general provisions on disability rights in Nigeria. This section will demonstrate the country‘s level of commitment to the disability cause and to portray how the disability human rights principle has been adopted locally.

Chapter four is comparative in nature and discusses the legal treatment accorded to persons with disabilities in the Republic of Korea, which is developed in the law and observance of the rights of persons with disabilities. This will demonstrate that Nigeria lags behind in recognizing and implementing fundamental rights and freedoms, structures and mechanisms put in place to protect the rights and persons with disabilities. In addition, it gives key insights of how the Nigerian statute can be improved to comply with the Constitution of Nigeria, 2018 and international instruments.

Chapter five is divided into two parts: the conclusion and the recommendations. The conclusion is a summary of the research findings. The main purpose of the conclusion is to demonstrate that the Persons with Disabilities Act has pronounced gaps and it can only safely be held so when it is

 

measured against the Constitution of Nigeria, 2018 and the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities as yardsticks. It also discusses Nigeria‘s level and extent of compliance on disability laws as captured under the Constitution of Nigeria, 2018 and international instruments.

The recommendations comprise of suggestions of legislative and institutional reforms, which are necessary in order to effectively deal or cater for the rights of the persons with disabilities in Nigeria.