The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, has praised Governor Dauda Lawal for approving the establishment of the Zamfara State Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) Board.
The announcement was made by the Secretary to the State Government, Malam Abubakar Mohammad Nakwada, who explained that the Board was created following amendments to the state law aimed at protecting the rights of Persons with Disabilities, preventing discrimination, and promoting equal access to opportunities.
Key amendments include the substitution of “Chairman” with “Executive Chairman,” the replacement of “Executive Secretary” with “Secretary,” and the conversion of part-time members to full-time status. Significantly, the law mandates that all Board members must be Persons with Disabilities, ensuring the body reflects the realities and aspirations of the disability community.
In a statement issued by his Director of Media and Communications, Mr. Lanre Oloyede, Hon. Abba Isa commended Governor Lawal for aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing the move as a demonstration of commitment to social welfare and inclusive governance.
The presidential aide also urged other state governors to domesticate the National Disability Act and establish agencies that will promote disability inclusion at the state level. He further assured that his office is ready to partner with and provide technical support to the newly established Zamfara Board.
Hon. Abba Isa commended the appointment of Alhaji Usman Ahmed Nahuche, a retired Permanent Secretary and respected Deaf community leader, as the pioneer Executive Chairman of the Board. Other members appointed include Hajiya Amina B.M. Audu (Spinal Cord Injuries cluster), Tukur Abdullahi (Deaf cluster), Babangida Umar Shinkafi (Physically Challenged cluster), Umar Babangida Ahmed (Blind cluster), Binta Namadi (Women’s Representative), and Sani Abubakar (Member).
The establishment of the Board, Governor Lawal emphasized, is a reaffirmation of his administration’s commitment to social justice, equity, and inclusivity. He also expressed gratitude to development partners and stakeholders who supported the amendment process, assuring continued collaboration to enhance the welfare of all citizens in Zamfara State.
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