Governor Ahmed Aliyu has announced plans by his administration to implement a special skills acquisition programme tailored for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Sokoto State.
The governor disclosed this initiative during the celebration of the 2024 International Day of Persons with Disabilities held in Sokoto.
Aliyu explained that the programme aims to equip PWDs with skills to secure gainful employment and reduce the prevalence of street begging among them. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and improving the quality of life for PWDs across the state.
The governor also assured attendees that the AbdulRasheed Adisa Raji Special School Sokoto would receive focused attention to continue delivering quality education to pupils with disabilities. He pledged to sponsor the children of PWDs to pursue higher education in tertiary institutions of their choice, ensuring they achieve their academic and professional aspirations.
“This administration is devoted to your welfare and that of your children. You are welcome to reach out to me anytime,” Governor Aliyu reassured.
He further disclosed that the 2025 state budget includes special provisions for PWDs and urged them to support his administration’s efforts to transform Sokoto State. He revealed that the monthly allowances for PWDs had been increased from N6,500 to N10,000 to create job opportunities and reduce street begging. Currently, 6,679 registered PWDs are benefiting from this allowance, and the administration plans to expand the number to 10,000 to reach more beneficiaries.
Additionally, Governor Aliyu highlighted other initiatives, including the provision of palliatives and the establishment of special Ramadan feeding centers for PWDs across the state’s 23 local government areas. He announced the fulfillment of a promise to distribute 500 handcycles to physically disabled individuals and pledged to procure an additional 500 for further distribution.
Governor Aliyu also declared a donation of N10,000 each to the 6,679 PWDs from Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, a key leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Sokoto State.
Speaking at the event, Amina Kaoje, overseer of the Sokoto State Agency for Persons with Disabilities, lauded the governor for prioritizing the needs of PWDs and called for the provision of larger office space and vehicles to enhance the agency’s operations.
The celebration featured the distribution of handcycles to some physically disabled individuals, who expressed gratitude to the governor for delivering on his promises. They prayed for his continued success and well-being.
The event’s highlight was a para-soccer match between two teams of PWDs. The winners received a trophy and N1 million, while the runners-up were awarded a trophy and N500,000, both prizes provided by Governor Aliyu.