Community Integration of People with Disability in Nigeria

Abstract

In Nigeria disabled people have been marginalized in many ways, including in terms of economic, political and social development matters. The  disabled people are seen as being dependent people in need of special care and services (which are not available in most cases) and often not seen  as part of productive or contributing members of the society. This paper examines the importance of community integration toward people with  disability, changing the attitude of people towards people with disability, and determine the method best available for the people with disabilities to  conform, live in the community and have ability to live freely and associate with other people who do not have disabilities. Therefore, the paper  highlights who the disabled are, types and nature of disabilities, and the care of people with disabilities in Nigeria from pre-colonial to post-colonial  era. In addition, the paper also delineates the available traditional and modern welfare system available for people with disabilities in Nigeria.  Relevant sociological theories are used to shed more light on the subject matter. Conclusion and recommendations are also drawn at the end of the  paper.