Adetunde Ademefun Nominated for the Disability Champion Award at OurNigeria Awards 2024

Adetunde Ademefun Nominated for the Disability Champion Award at OurNigeria Awards 2024

The prestigious OurNigeria Awards 2024 has announced Adetunde Ademefun Emmanuel as a nominee for the Disability Champion Award, recognising his exceptional contributions to disability rights, inclusion, and sustainable development in Nigeria and beyond. Adetunde’s nomination highlights his lifelong commitment to creating opportunities for persons with disabilities and advocating for their inclusion across all sectors of society.

With over two decades of professional experience, Adetunde has established himself as a formidable force in programme design, monitoring and evaluation, governance, and inclusive development. He is currently the Head of the National Secretariat/Director of Programmes at the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), the umbrella organisation for persons with disabilities in Nigeria. In this capacity, he oversees impactful programmes aimed at bridging the gap between human rights and inclusive development.

“These are the true Nigerians whose efforts and commitment to service we must not allow to go unnoticed. I don’t know him in person, but I think his nominatiin is one of the exceptional case in this year’s award. You an feel it from his profile of service to the nation via persons with disabilities,” said, Dr. Abubakar Sani, the OurNigeria News publisher, adding that he was impressed.

Through his leadership, Adetunde has pioneered numerous initiatives that have significantly advanced the inclusion of persons with disabilities in education, politics, governance, and economic opportunities. He has worked alongside global development partners such as the United Nations, the European Union, and USAID to implement interventions that address barriers faced by persons with disabilities. His efforts have led to improved accessibility, representation, and participation of persons with disabilities in various spheres of life.

Adetunde’s nomination also recognises his advocacy for women and young people. He has co-designed and led initiatives that empower women in leadership and governance while addressing gender-based violence and inequality. His work has supported sustainable development through partnerships with global organisations, including the Ford Foundation, Oxfam Nigeria, and Mastercard Foundation.

Adetunde’s expertise extends beyond advocacy. He has significantly contributed to trade facilitation and economic development as a member of the Nigeria National Trade Facilitation Committee and the Nigeria Trade Policy Review Committee. His ability to integrate inclusive development into these sectors underscores his visionary leadership and strategic thinking.

A passionate advocate for disability rights, Adetunde is affiliated with several global and regional organisations, such as the International Disability Alliance (IDA), Commonwealth Disabled People’s Forum(CDPF), the African Disability Forum (ADF), and the West Africa Federation of Disabled (WAFOD). Through these platforms, he has championed the inclusion of persons with disabilities, women and youths in policymaking, humanitarian actions, and community transformation.

Adetunde’s contributions to Nigeria’s development go beyond advocacy and policy. As a faith-driven individual, he integrates his personal values into his work, continuously inspiring those around him. A devoted husband and father of three, Adetunde’s personal life reflects the same dedication and compassion that define his professional achievements.

The OurNigeria Awards 2024 Disability Champion Award celebrates individuals whose work has significantly advanced the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. Adetunde’s nomination is a testament to his tireless efforts, which have left an indelible mark on countless lives and positioned Nigeria as a leader in disability inclusion.

As the awards ceremony approaches, scheduled for January 30, 2024, at the Abuja Continental Hotel, this nomination highlights the importance of recognising leaders like Adetunde Ademefun, who embody the values of service, advocacy, and transformative change. His story serves as an inspiration to all, showcasing the power of dedication and the impact of inclusive leadership.