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SEDarc PhD Cohort 2026

Ofure Odibeli

Sedarc Photo Ofure

Women with disabilities are disproportionately vulnerable to climate and disaster impacts, yet are
frequently excluded from climate decision-making processes that directly affect their lives. There 
is a critical gap in research that investigates the intersection of gender, disability, wellbeing, 
and climate resilience. Given the increasing global disaster risks and international commitments to 
equitable  climate change adaptation, addressing this gap is of global importance. This study 
explores how women with disabilities experience and respond to climate impacts, how their 
wellbeing, participation, and leadership are reflected in Nigeria’s climate and disaster risk reduction (DRR) policies, and how inclusive approaches can promote informed decision-making and community resilience.

Integrating feminist disability thinking, intersectionality, and capability frameworks, this study 
will use a qualitative, participatory research methodology collecting data through narrative 
interviews, photovoice, policy document analysis, and participatory workshops. Using a mix of 
qualitative methods will support the research's validity and reliability, facilitate co-analysis of 
findings, and place emphasis on the voices of women with disabilities. Collaboration with Disabled 
Peoples’ Organisations will facilitate access to women with diverse disabilities and provide 
accessibility support to ensure inclusive engagement.

Aligned with the “Healthy, Thriving Communities” theme, this study explores how women with 
disabilities can live healthy, fulfilled lives amid climate challenges by centring their participation and wellbeing in inclusive climate governance and community resilience. This research contributes to academic scholarship in intersectional climate justice and disability-inclusive resilience, while empowering women with disabilities with advocacy skills and equipping policymakers and practitioners with evidence-based strategies for inclusive, wellbeing-centred climate resilience.