State and Future of Legislating for Special Education in Nigeria: The Plateau State Experience

Abstract

The paper attempts a critical evaluation of the state and future of legislating for special education in Nigeria with particular focus on what has happened in Plateau State. It traces the evolution of legislating for special education in the country to date and identifies the major components of such efforts. Also, with particular attention to Plateau State, the paper provides an insight into efforts made in the state towards providing an encompassing and comprehensive legislation for the benefit of Plateau State indigenes with disabilities. While advocating for legislation that will cater for the educational needs of persons with special needs in Nigeria, the paper makes a case for legislating for these categories of individuals in other areas like rehabilitation, employment and civic rights. Furthermore, it provides a justification for appropriate legislation in favour of persons with special needs.