The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) on Thursday carried its 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) sensitization outreach to Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory, calling for stronger collaboration with traditional institutions in the fight against discrimination.
Led by the Executive Secretary, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan Burki, the delegation paid a courtesy visit to the palace of the Chairman of the Kuje Traditional Council, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Haruna Tanko Jibrin (GOMO).
Hon. Ayuba expressed appreciation for the warm reception, commending the traditional institution for its role in promoting inclusive governance and supporting immunization campaigns that have helped eradicate diseases such as poliomyelitis within local communities.
He noted that since assuming office over a year ago, the Commission has worked tirelessly to eliminate discrimination and marginalization against persons with disabilities. The Executive Secretary stressed that traditional leaders play a pivotal role in shaping community attitudes and ensuring that no citizen is sidelined.
“As we commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we found it necessary to visit the custodians of the people to strengthen our synergy against all forms of discrimination,” he said. “Disability is not a death sentence, and building an inclusive society requires collective effort.”
Responding, HRH Alhaji Haruna Tanko Jibrin thanked the Commission for the visit and congratulated the ES on his appointment. He reaffirmed the traditional council’s commitment to promoting inclusion, emphasizing that every member of the community deserves equal rights and dignity.
The monarch revealed that the Kuje Traditional Council has established two schools for persons with disabilities, underscoring its dedication to supporting their potential. He assured the NCPWD that his palace remains open to all, regardless of physical challenges.
Also speaking, Dr. Adebukola Adebayo, Technical Assistant to the Commission, commended the royal father for his consistent support and acknowledged the contributions of development partners—including the Clinton Health Access Initiative, Christian Blind Mission, Sightsavers, and the Leprosy Mission Nigeria—toward the outreach.
The event featured an awareness rally from the palace to the Kuje Area Council Secretariat aimed at sensitizing residents on disability inclusion.
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