Former governor of Nasarawa State and Senator representing Nasarawa South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Senator Umaru Tanko Al-makura has congratulated the over 30 million Nigerians living with different kinds of disabilities on the establishment and appointment of executive members of Disabilities Commission by President Muhammadu Buhari.
Sen. Al-Makura while thanking President Muhammadu Buhari for assenting to the Discrimination Against Persons with Disability (Prohibition) Act, 2019 last year which provides for the establishment of the Commission noted that President Muhammadu Buhari by approving the appointment of the Executive Secretary, Chairman and members of the Council of the Commission has once again, proved his commitment and desire to improve the quality of life of vulnerable groups in Nigeria and ensure they enjoy their full rights and privileges as citizens of Nigeria.
Sen. Al-Makura who could not hide his appreciation, also expressed happiness and fulfilment as one of the people living with disabilities. That his group now have a commission and executives in place to cater for their needs, protect their rights and provide an enabling environment for them to maximize their potentials, thrive and contribute valuably to the society and the nation as a whole.
Sen. Al-Makura also remembered with nostalgia some times in the year 2012 when he led people with disabilities on a one million match to the National Assembly on the need to expedite all legislative processes on the passage of Disabilities Law. Today, is a dream come true for Senator Al-Makura. He therefore thanked the National Assembly for the passage of the Law.
The functions of the Commission includes: the formulation and implementation of policies and guidelines as appropriate for the education and social development of persons with disabilities, preparation of schemes designed to promote social welfare of persons with disabilities, promoting and uplifting the general well being of persons with disabilities by encouraging the public to change their negative attitude towards persons with disabilities.