EXPLORING THE SOCIAL SUPPORT FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITY IN NIGERIA: A NARRATIVE REVIEW OF CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACTION

Abstract

Background: Nigeria has a high prevalence of disability, with one in every ten households affected. The social model of disability suggests that societal exclusion, rather than impairments themselves, poses significant problems for PWDs. Cultural and traditional attitudes in Nigeria are largely negative towards PWDs, contributing to high barriers to their inclusion.

Aims/objectives: This study aims to identify the social support or protection available for persons with disability in Nigeria, challenges and recommendations listed across relevant literature.

Methods: Narrative analysis was done after comprehensive data searches were conducted using Pubmed, EBSCOhost to access Medline, Cinahl Plus, APA PsycArticles and APA PsycInfo databases and Google Scholar database. Three Hundred Fifty-Nine data sources were screened, and Twenty sources of evidence included in this review. Result: The findings of this review were broken down into two sections such as the governmental support for persons with disability and challenges identified and the non-governmental/community support and challenges identified and organised using the principles of the disability inclusion and accountability framework put forward by the World Bank. There is limited governmental support for PWDs: Nigeria passed a disability legislation but implementation is lagging. There is support from non-governmental sources, but this is challenged by lack of partnership with government. It is also problematic, because it reaffirms harmful stereotypes instead of being empowering. Conclusion and Recommendations: This research presents an up-to-date review on PWDs and supports available in Nigeria. Recommendations include advocacy efforts by civil society and social workers to mount pressure on the government for proper implementation of the disability legislation and for more research directed towards PWDs.