Dr Joy Wanwuri Bright-George & Dr Dumo Patience Bobmanuel
Abstract
Inclusive education policy is a global agenda aimed at ensuring no child is denied equitable and quality education regardless of their educational needs or their location. In Nigeria, policies and frameworks such as National Policy on Education and the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act have been established to provide a foundation for promoting inclusive education practices. The policies, aligned with the Education for All (EFA) goals, emphasize equal education rights, accessibility, teachers training and the removal of all barriers that may hinder the education of all persons with disabilities. Despite these frameworks, implementation processes in Nigeria face numerous challenges, including insufficient funding, infrastructural barriers, and a lack of trained personnel. This paper recommends that in overcoming these challenges, government should increase funding for inclusive education and enhance teachers’ training. The authors conclude that given the importance of inclusive education in achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) related to quality educationn, collaboration among government, educators, families, and communities is essential to make inclusive education a reality in Nigeria.
