The Journey of Vulnerable Network Foundation – Now Disability Watch Foundation

 

Empowering the Vulnerable. Transforming Lives. Inspiring Change.

The Vulnerable Network Foundation (VNF), now known as the Disability Watch Foundation, was founded with a simple yet powerful mission: to create an inclusive society where no one is left behind—regardless of their ability, background, or circumstance.

What began as a grassroots initiative has grown into a nationally recognized nonprofit organization advocating for the rights and empowerment of persons with disabilities in Nigeria and beyond.

From a Dream to a Movement

Founded by disability rights advocate Abubakar Musa Usman, the Foundation was built on personal experience, deep compassion, and a passion for social justice. Abubakar witnessed the daily struggles of people living with disabilities—ranging from discrimination and inaccessibility to economic exclusion—and decided to take action.

In response, he established the Vulnerable Network Foundation to give voice to the voiceless and to fight for equality and dignity for all.

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Our Focus Areas

Over the years, the foundation has led various initiatives that directly impact the lives of people with disabilities and vulnerable communities:

1. Vocational Training & Skills Acquisition

We provide practical training in tailoring, ICT, crafts, and phone repairs, equipping hundreds of individuals with the tools to earn a living and build independent lives.

2. Entrepreneurship Grants

Through our Micro-Enterprise Support Program, we award grants to aspiring entrepreneurs with disabilities, helping them start or expand small businesses. We also provide mentorship and business development support to ensure long-term success.

3. Inclusive Education

We advocate for the rights of children with disabilities to attend mainstream schools. We supply assistive devices, support inclusive infrastructure, and train teachers to create learning environments that work for all students.

4. Legal Aid & Human Rights

We offer free legal support for persons with disabilities facing injustice. Our advocacy team works closely with communities to challenge discrimination, promote policy change, and amplify the voices of the marginalized.

5. Health Outreach

We organize community health programs and distribute wheelchairs, mobility aids, and hygiene kits, especially in underserved rural areas and IDP camps.

6. Policy Advocacy

We work with government institutions, civil society, and international partners to shape policies that promote accessibility, inclusion, and equal rights for all.

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Our Impact in Numbers

• Over 3,000 lives directly impacted.

• 200+ disability-owned businesses supported.

• 700+ mobility aids distributed.

• 12 communities reached through education and empowerment programs.

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A New Chapter: Disability Watch Foundation

In 2025, we rebranded as the Disability Watch Foundation (DWF) to better reflect our growing role in monitoring disability-related policy, advocating for national reform, and holding public institutions accountable.

The new name emphasizes our evolution from grassroots intervention to national advocacy and continental engagement.

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Meet Our Founder

Abubakar Musa Usman, born in Potiskum, Nigeria, is a writer, disability rights advocate, and social entrepreneur. He is passionate about creating inclusive systems where everyone can thrive, regardless of ability. Under his leadership, the foundation continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact.

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Partner With Us

We invite individuals, institutions, and corporations to partner with us in creating a truly inclusive Africa. Whether through donations, volunteer work, media collaboration, or advocacy partnerships—together, we can make a difference.