The Nasarawa State Government has pledged its support for the proposed Farm City Project of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), describing the initiative as a major step towards promoting economic empowerment, skills development and entrepreneurship for persons with disabilities.
Deputy Governor Dr. Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe gave the assurance on Wednesday while receiving a joint delegation from the NCPWD and the Peace for Humanity Foundation in Lafia. He described the project as timely and aligned with the state’s priorities in agriculture, food security, peace and infrastructure development.
According to him, the initiative would help address unemployment and economic challenges facing persons with disabilities while attracting more investment into the state. He also assured the delegation that the government would provide suitable land for the project.
Speaking during the visit, Executive Secretary of the NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, said the Farm City is designed as a disability-inclusive empowerment and entrepreneurship hub rather than a residential settlement.
He explained that the centre would provide accessible agricultural production, agro-processing, vocational training, healthcare and enterprise development opportunities aimed at equipping persons with disabilities with sustainable livelihoods and reducing poverty.
Gufwan noted that Nasarawa was selected as the pilot state for the North Central zone because of its peaceful environment, commitment to disability inclusion and strong prospects for collaboration.
He added that the project is expected to create employment opportunities for thousands of persons with disabilities and their caregivers, strengthen food security and promote self-reliance through agriculture and related value chains.
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