Persons With Disabilities in Kebbi State have appealed to the State Government to provide better living standards, good education, etc for them. The body also made calls for appointment of a Special Assistant to represent them in Government.
The group’s concerns were made public in an open letter to Governor Atiku Bagudu through Khalid Aliyu Papa, Special adviser on students with disabilities to National Union of Kebbi State Students (NUKESS), President.
Papa noted that Persons with Disabilities need scholarships both local and international. According to him, such educational support is needed to better their chances in life while at same time giving a sense of Inclusion and belonging.
Aliyu added that Persons with Disabilities possess many business skills and should be given equal opportunities in employment, empowerment, and others.
He continued, “Our society need us, be it in the legislature, executive or judiciary. We have potential farmers, traders and medical experts. When we unite and join hands, we elevate our people and push for positions and better lives.
“We hereby appeal to the Governor to appoint a Special Assistant for people with special needs in your administration or create a scheme under the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development. Fortunately, report has reached us that you have plans on some of our needs.
“The issue of begging, especially among physically challenged persons has remained a challenge to many administrations. The northern part of the country appears to be the worst hit as begging is almost becoming a way of life for many of its occupants. The State Government, through its social security welfare fund should assist physically challenged persons become self employed and thus discourage the nuisance of street begging.
“WE ARE SPECIAL, we have the aim of reaching our people through poverty eradication schemes, meanwhile encouraging educational programmes to elevate our social status and empower our people by making them self-dependent.
“ Your Excellency, I wish you put smiles on the faces of young PWDs across Kebbi State. These young ones are special gifts to our world”.
Aliyu reiterated PWDs’ readiness to join hands with Government in formulating policies and progams that will address their needs and curb stigmatization, relegation, and degradation.
“We are sure you will expedite moves to roll out positive programs for the benefit of our teeming members” he concluded.