EFFECTIVENESS OF DISABILITY CLUSTERS IN LAGOS STATE UNDER THE UN CRPD

Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness of disability cluster organisations in Lagos State in implementing the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) in advocacy and service delivery. Using a qualitative research design, in-depth interviews were conducted with leaders and members of four disability clusters, including the National Association of the Blind, the Nigeria National Association of the Deaf, the National Association of Persons with Physical Disabilities, and the Spinal Cord Injured Association of Nigeria. Findings indicate that the UN CRPD serves as a key tool for legitimising advocacy, promoting a rights-based approach, and influencing service provision, including accessibility improvements in public facilities. However, institutional and economic constraints, such as limited training, insufficient technical support, and financial challenges, hinder the effective application of the convention. The study underscores the importance of strengthening organisational capacity and providing stable financial and institutional support to enhance the ability of disability clusters to fulfil their mandate. The findings provide evidence on how legal instruments such as the UN CRPD translate into practical outcomes for persons with disabilities and highlight avenues for policy and programmatic interventions to promote inclusion and rights protection in Lagos State.