The Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development in Abuja has constructed its first wheelchair accessibility ramp in 34 years, as the institution prepares to mark its anniversary on October 17, 2026.
The centre’s Director-General, Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, announced the development on Friday while outlining activities planned to commemorate the anniversary, with a focus on innovation, inclusion and women’s empowerment.
Established 34 years ago by the late First Lady Maryam Babangida, the centre had operated without wheelchair access until the recent intervention.
Julius Berger Constructs Ramp at No Cost to Government
Benjamins-Laniyi said construction of the accessibility ramp was carried out by Julius Berger at no cost to the government as part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility programme.
She explained that the project followed an accessibility audit conducted in collaboration with the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities.
The director-general said she had refused to occupy her upstairs office after assuming duty on June 1 until women with disabilities could access the building more easily.
Disability Experience Prompts Action
Benjamins-Laniyi cited an incident in August involving a member of the centre’s board, Ms Lois Auta, who has a disability and had to be carried upstairs by five men to attend a meeting.
She said the experience reinforced the need to address barriers faced by people with disabilities at the institution.
According to the director-general, Auta wheeled into the building independently for the first time on Wednesday, allowing her to enter with dignity without requiring assistance.
The centre also plans to redesign the ramp leading to its auditorium, which Benjamins-Laniyi said had been improperly constructed and had caused accidents.
Centre Expands Inclusion Beyond Physical Access
The director-general said the centre’s disability inclusion programme would extend beyond infrastructure improvements.
She disclosed that a visually impaired employee who joined the institution 29 years ago at the most junior level in its information and communications technology department would now head a directorate.
The centre is also upgrading its enabling technology and introducing new empowerment packages, research initiatives, artificial intelligence and ICT programmes through its six zonal offices.
Partnerships Support New Programmes
Benjamins-Laniyi identified the High Commission of India and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) among the centre’s partners.
She said the institution was also working with the National Gallery of Art to launch a public portal called “First 66”.
Through the portal, Nigerians will be able to select 65 living women icons. First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who recently celebrated her 66th birthday, will be listed as the first entry.
Director-General Calls for Greater Solidarity Among Women
Benjamins-Laniyi urged women to support one another, introducing the phrase “She for She” to challenge the perception that women do not support other women.
She also encouraged women who had contested elections to remain focused, saying their participation in the political process could help create opportunities for other women.
Centre Repositioned Under Women’s Affairs Ministry
The director-general said the institution was being repositioned to serve as the front office of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs.
She said the initiative aligned with the “Women O’Clock” declaration of the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim.
The centre’s 34th anniversary activities will highlight its work on women’s empowerment, disability inclusion, technology and institutional development.
