Equity and social justice perspectives on disability inclusion in healthcare services in Nigeria

Abstract

This Perspective explores equity and social justice perspectives on disability inclusion in Nigerian health care services. We note the physical, economic, and cultural barriers that limit persons with disabilities (PWDs) access. While national laws such as the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act (2018) and international guidelines such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD,2006) are available, access to health care among PWDs remains low in Nigeria. We contrast equity and equality in health care, advocating for policies favoring marginalized populations, and apply social justice theory to argue for equitable health care in Nigeria. We examine successful equity-based models of health care in other low- and middle-income countries and make recommendations, including stronger policy enforcement, disability-awareness training for health workers, and more community-based interventions. This Perspective stresses the need for more empirical research to guide policymaking and support disability-inclusive health care in Nigeria. Achieving a firmly inclusive healthcare system in Nigeria necessitates both structural change and interventions that promote social justice.