Blind Association Alleges Disability Discrimination in D-Light Solar Recruitment Exercise in Kano

The Kano Youth Wing of the Nigeria Association of the Blind (NAB) has accused D-Light Solar Energy of allegedly discriminating against a qualified visually impaired applicant during a recent recruitment exercise in Kano State.

In a statement signed by its Youth Leader, Comrade Hamza Aminu Fagge, the association alleged that Mr. Yusuf Adam Muhammad, a person with visual impairment, successfully passed all the required screening stages for the position of Solar Retailer but was denied employment because of his disability.

According to the association, Mr. Muhammad disclosed his visual impairment during a virtual interview and was allowed to continue with the recruitment process.

However, it claimed that on Thursday, June 25, 2026, he was asked to remain at the company’s Kano office from about 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. before he was reportedly given ₦1,000 for transportation by the company’s Area Business Manager, Mrs. Mansura Isa, and asked to return home with a promise that he would be contacted later.

The association said Mr. Muhammad was never offered the job despite allegedly meeting all the recruitment requirements.

The group described the alleged action as a violation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, which prohibits discrimination based on disability and guarantees equal employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. It also noted that the law provides for at least five percent of employment opportunities in public institutions to be reserved for persons with disabilities, while encouraging inclusion across both the public and private sectors.

The association further alleged that a courtesy visit letter addressed to Aspira Nigeria Ltd was rejected on the grounds that the company does not handle disability-related matters.

Expressing concern over what it described as continued barriers facing qualified persons with disabilities, the association called on the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, relevant security agencies, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to investigate the matter and ensure that appropriate action is taken in accordance with the law.

“We remain committed to advocating for equal opportunities, fairness, and respect for the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities,” the statement said.

As of the time of filing this report, D-Light Solar Energy had not publicly responded to the allegations.