By Abigael Dada 300lvl Mass Comm
As the world marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities today, 3rd December, 2025, the former president of the Persons with Special Needs at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Yusuf Abdullahi, has renewed calls for greater acceptance and support of people with disabilities.
Abdullahi, who spoke in an interview with the ABU Campus Press, said many student continue to face challenges that limit their full participation in university life. These challenges, he explained, range from physical inaccessibility to social exclusion and communication barriers.
“Students with disabilities often face challenges that go beyond physical access," he said. “Many struggle with social acceptance, communication barriers, and limited access to learning materials in accessible formats."
He urged universities to take intentional steps to promote acceptance, such as providing learning materials in accessible formats, such as braille, audio or digital text compatible with assistive technology. He also stressed the need for involving students with disabilities in decision-making bodies, allowing them to have a seat at the table, so their experiences and needs can help inform institutional policies.
Abdullahi also appealed to the general public to recognize the potential and creativity of persons with disabilities, saying, “Disability is not inability.”
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed annually, promotes the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities, with this year's theme focusing on "Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress."