In the bustling heart of Nigeria, Kwara State has become a beacon of hope and inclusivity. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq recently made history by appointing two physically challenged individuals as Permanent Secretaries simultaneously, marking a first in the state’s history.
It brings to three, the number of such appointments in his government, having made a similar one in his first tenure.
This unprecedented move has stirred the hearts of Nigerians across the nation, reinforcing the popular adage, ‘There’s ability in disability.’
Peter Ayanwale, a blind man who formerly served as vice principal at the Kwara State School for Special Needs, was one of the newly sworn-in secretaries. His remarkable journey to the pinnacle of his career has been nothing short of inspiring.
“Until a few days ago, when our names were announced, I had no idea. When my friend called me to congratulate me, I asked, ‘Are you joking? Are you dreaming?’,” Ayanwale shared, recalling the surprise of his appointment, while his wife, Motunrayo, expressed gratitude for the Governor’s decision.
“Many people are struggling to attain the position of Permanent Secretary but are unable to do so. Therefore, it is a wonderful thing that our Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, did for us in Kwara State, especially for my family,” she said.
Abdullahi Kayode, another appointee who uses a wheelchair, was less surprised by his appointment.
Kayode, now Permanent Secretary in the Kwara State Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, expressed his belief in the Governor’s commitment to inclusivity.
“The Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has made significant improvements to the school for special needs and has consistently shown kindness and generosity towards people with disabilities. His love and support for us make it unsurprising that he would appoint PWDs as permanent secretaries. He leads an all-inclusive government where your physical abilities do not matter,” stated Kayode.
In response to these appointments, Governor AbdulRazaq has urged his new appointees to use their positions to improve the lives of the people.
“As cabinet members and senior bureaucrats, your role is to work together with the government to enhance the quality of life for the people through the design and implementation of various policies and programs, as well as by setting an example through your conduct in public leadership,” the governor said.
These landmark appointments are not the first time Governor AbdulRazaq has demonstrated his commitment to inclusivity.
During his first term, he enacted legislation requiring a minimum of 35% representation for women in elective and appointed offices in the state. This initiative earned him national and global recognition.
Reactions to the Governor’s recent actions have been overwhelmingly positive. Senator representing Anambra Central District, Chief Victor Umeh, commended the Governor for his inclusive action.
“Their disabilities do not hinder their productivity; they work alongside their able-bodied counterparts, promoting a sense of inclusion. This is the kind of inclusive action that our governments should take,” Umeh stated.
Likewise, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, expressed his support for the disability community.
He disclosed that CAN was already working on accessibility for the disabled,” Okoh stated.
The Muslim community has also reacted positively. Muslim cleric, Imam Farouk Adebayo, praised the governor’s action, saying, “It’s a testament to Governor AbdulRazaq’s extraordinary vision that he has recognized the potential in these remarkable individuals.
“He’s shown us all that physical limitations can be surmounted, and that real ability lies in the strength of one’s character, intellect, and dedication.”
Also adding his voice was Sheikh Usman Ibrahim, who said, “This appointment is a milestone. It signals to us that in the eyes of this administration, everyone has worth and everyone can contribute. I pray other states take note and make similar strides.”
For these two newly-appointed secretaries, their journey has been anything but ordinary. Ayanwale, who is visually impaired, is usually driven to his new office by his son, Emmanuel.
Meanwhile, Kayode, who navigates with a wheelchair, recently noticed the construction of a ramp at his office, improving accessibility for him.
Both have pledged to use their positions to champion the cause of people living with disabilities.
“I cannot leave people living with disabilities alone, regardless of their category – whether they are blind, deaf, dumb, or have limb deformities. I am here to represent them and work for them,” Ayanwale said.
“The governor has already demonstrated his support, and I appeal to him to continue showing kindness, love, and care for us, especially in the area of employment,” Kayode added.
Their appointments serve as a testament to the Governor’s commitment to inclusivity and equality, setting an example for other states in Nigeria to emulate. With these appointments, Kwara State has demonstrated that disability is not an inability, and that every citizen, regardless of their physical condition, has the potential to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress.
The story of Peter Anyanwale and Abdullahi Kayode is a powerful reminder that disability is not a barrier to greatness. It is a message of hope, resilience, and the endless possibilities that lie within each of us.
These two individuals, once seen as disadvantaged, are now at the helm of decision-making, influencing policies, and shaping the future of Kwara State.
Indeed, Governor AbdulRazaq’s action has not just changed the lives of these two individuals; it has changed the narrative for all persons living with disabilities in Kwara State, and potentially, across Nigeria. It is a bold statement that everyone, irrespective of their physical condition, should be given an equal opportunity to serve their country.
As Nigerians celebrate this milestone in Kwara State, the people also look forward to seeing more of such inclusive actions in other parts of Nigeria.
In the words of Peter Anyanwale, “There is ability in disability,” and Kwara State is leading the way in showing how true this can be.
The Federal Government has received a petition with 48,063 signatures from 121 countries calling for action to protect disability rights.
This is ahead of the UN summit on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), scheduled for between Sept. 18 and 19. Joy Tarbo, Communications Associate, Sightsavers Nigeria, disclosed this in a statement on Friday in Abuja, after the handing over of the petition to Dr. Betta Edu, Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
According to Tarbo, the Nigerian Government has received a petition with 48,063 signatures calling for action to protect disability rights ahead of the UN summit on the SDGs. She said: “The petition was handed to Dr. Betta Edu, Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation; It was signed by 48,063 people from 121 countries, including Nigeria.
“The signees include Mr. James Lalu, the Executive Secretary, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD); Dr. Zakariya Mohammed Deputy Director, OSSAP-SDG, the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), and Sightsavers.
“The campaign is calling on world leaders to keep the SDG promise of leaving no-one behind and ensure disability is specifically addressed in discussions on the SDGs.
“The government will join other member states at the SDG Summit in New York on the 18 and 19 to make new commitments and assess progress on the global goals.
“The outcome of the summit will be a political declaration and global and national commitments made by UN member states.”
Meanwhile, Dr Sunday Isiyaku, Sightsavers Country Director, says that as the world arrives at the halfway point of the 2030 deadline, progress on the SDGs has derailed, and completely off-track.
He said: “People with disabilities are being hit hardest by the lack of progress on poverty and inequality; The promise to leave no-one behind is in peril,” he said.
Similarly, Abdullahi Aliyu- Usman, President, JONAPWD, said “We are calling on all world leaders to speed up action on the SDGs and make sure they are inclusive of people with disabilities.
“They must ensure that the political declaration and all national commitments made at the summit, focus on reaching those who are being left furthest behind.
“This is our last chance to get the SDGs back on track.”
“The call follows a new UN report which shows that the SDGs cannot be achieved unless urgent action is taken to include marginalised groups, including PWDs in global progress,” he said. (NAN)
By Umar Saleh Burrah and Yusuf Mohammed Lawan, Bauchi
The leadership of Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) Bauchi state chapter has expressed immense gratitude and sincere appreciation to the executive Governor of Bauchi State, Abdulkadir Bala Mohammed, for his administration’s total commitment and support towards the entire persons with Disabilities in the state.
The group made this known during a courtesy visit to the Bauchi State Deputy Governor His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Auwal Jatau in his office.
The JONAPWD leaders thanked the Governor for his many disability-friendly policies. Discribing him as the most PWD-friendly Governor in the history of the state.
Responding on behalf of the Governor, the Deputy Governor said as part of the government efforts to alleviate the sufferings of people with disabilities and ensure that they relate well with others, Bauchi State Government has reassured of its commitment towards supporting them to make life better.
Noting that, Sen Bala’s administration will consider restoring Bauchi State Agency for People with Disabilities.
Hon. Jatau who also doubled as the chairman of palliative committee vowed that the present administration will come up with programmes beneficial to them in order to have a sense of belonging. He expresssed concern over the challenges facing people with disabilities in the state.
The delegation expressed their gratitudes to Governor Bala’s led administration for support in various ways and assured him of their daily prayers and goodwill for the further development and transformation of Bauchi State.
The group was led by former Chairman of Bauchi state Agency for persons with Disabilities, Ibrahim Mohammed to the residence of chairman of palliative committee.
The National Commission for Persons With Disabilities has announced 9 Disability – inclusive policies that will serve as a guide to the general public in relating with Persons With Disabilities in Nigeria.
Speaking at the maiden edition of the Task team on disabilities recently inaugurated by the Executive Secretary, Mr James David Lalu, the team leader and the Director Enforcement and Compliance Department of the Commission Barrister Ikem Uchegbulam highlighted key components of the 9 policies as enshrined in the 2018 Disability Law.
According to him, the policies are expressly discussed in part i – ix of the Discrimination against Persons With Disabilities 2018 (Prohibition) Act, which covers the rights of PWDs on Accessibility, Health, Special consideration on queues, Certification of disability, Equal opportunity to employment and Education.
“It will interest you to know that if any person contravenes section 26 (1) which talks about queues, the person is liable on conviction to a fine of N50,000 or a term of six months imprisonment or both” he explained.
Another member of the disability task team, the Commission’s Head of Women and Unit, Mrs. Patience Ogolo-Dickson spoke on the policy around women and children with Disabilities.
She emphasized that the rights of children with Disabilities are equal to their counterparts and should not in any way be undermined.
Reacting to the policies enumerated, the founder and CEO of Human Rights Radio, Ahmed Isa expressed optimism that the society will get better with the level of awareness being created by the Task team on disabilities on the operationalization of the Disability Law.
He, therefore, reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the disability projects in all spheres.
The European Commission has proposed the introduction of a European Disability Card as well as the enhancement of the current European Parking Card for persons with disabilities. Both cards will be recognised all across the European Union (EU) and make it easier for persons with disabilities to travel across the European Union.
A statement published by the Commission on its website on 6th September, 2023, disclosed that the Commission’s proposal introduced a standardised European Disability Card and enhances the current European Parking Card for persons with disabilities.
Both cards will facilitate persons with disabilities to access right to free movement, by making sure they can, on an equal basis, access special conditions, preferential treatment, and parking rights when visiting another Member State.
When people’s disability status is not recognised abroad, they cannot access the special conditions and preferential treatment, such as free and/or priority access, reduced fees or personal assistance, while visiting other Member States.
To address this issue, the Commission proposes the creation of a standardised European Disability Card.
The European Disability Card will serve as recognised proof of disability throughout the EU, granting equal access to special conditions and preferential treatment in public and private services, including for instance:
- transport
- cultural events
- museums
- leisure and sport centres or amusement parks
It will be issued by the national competent authorities and complement existing national cards or certificates.
The Commission’s proposal will now be discussed by the European Parliament and the Council. The proposal foresees that once adopted, Member States will have 18 months to incorporate the provisions of the Directive into national law.
The proposed Directive establishing the European Disability Card and the European Parking Card for persons with disabilities was announced in the EU Strategy for the rights of persons with disabilities 2021-2030.
The proposal contributes to the implementation by the EU of the United Nations Convention on the rights of persons with disabilities, to which the EU and all its Member States are party (UNCRPD).
Sen. John Owan-Enoh, minister of sports development, has pledged more support for the development of para-sports in the country.
Mr Enoh made the pledge on Monday in Abuja following Nigeria’s encouraging participation at the maiden 2023 African Para Games in Accra.
The minister in a statement issued by Mohammed Manga, director press in the ministry, congratulated Team Nigeria for making the nation proud at the Games, in spite of financial challenges.
Team Nigeria has so far clinched two medals in the women’s wheelchair tennis, singles and doubles categories.
“We are passionate about support for para-sports and will ensure that the existing medium already created and dedicated to coordinate, promote and manage the development of para-sports in Nigeria is strengthened for better performance.
“We will make it possible to utilise para-sports as a veritable tool for accelerated social integration and inclusion of persons living with disabilities,” he said.
Mr Enoh said the President Bola Tinubu-led administration was committed to using sports to empower, especially people living with disabilities and tackling poverty alleviation.
He called on relevant stakeholders to join government in developing para sports in the country, with a view to giving the athletes, a sense of belonging.
The games, which began on Sept. 3 with over 20 countries participating, will end on Tuesday.
(NAN)
As the 1st African Para Games tagged Accra 2023, sets to round off in Ghana, the minister of sports development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has congratulated Team Nigeria for again, making the nation proud by clinching two medals in the women’s wheelchair tennis, singles and doubles categories.
Senator Owan Enoh, in a message to the athletes and officials, stated that Nigeria was able to join 20 other countries to compete for laurels at the Games despite dwindling resources, demonstrating the commitment of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Administration to poverty alleviation and empowerment of people living with disabilities through sports.
He explained that the participation of Team Nigeria at the Competition which is the first of its kind, held after over three and half decades of the establishment of the African Sports Confederation of the Disabled/African Paralympic Committee (AfPC), will in addition, afford the nation’s Para Athletes an opportunity to experience a Multi-Para Sporting event on the African Continent.
The Minister informed that the Competition, with about 6000 participants, will, among others, serve as a Catalyst for further development and promotion of Para-Sports in Africa.
He reiterated the commitment of the present administration’s resolve to ensuring the creation of an enabling environment for our athletes and in particular, athletes living with disabilities in the country, not only to afford them the opportunity to showcase their sporting talents across the globe but also to raise the nation’s flag high through podium finishes at all international competitions.
Governor Abdullahi Sule has approved five per cent employment slots for persons with disabilities in Nasarawa.
In a statement signed by Abigail Waya, Nasarawa’s head of civil service on Wednesday, Governor Sule said “the approval became necessary because of Mr Sule’s government commitment to providing equal opportunities for all residents.
The statement said the governor had already directed all ministries, departments and agencies to reserve five per cent of every recruitment exercise for PWDs.
“This directive is in accordance with the domesticated Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act of the state signed in 2018. It is aimed at ensuring that individuals with disabilities are given fair access to government employment,” said the statement.
It added, “Accordingly, I am pleased to convey the directive of the governor to MDAs who are expected to implement it with utmost dedication and commitment.”
Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) have called on the government and stakeholders, to prioritise disability inclusion as a strategy to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
They made the call at a one-day consultation on mid-term review of disability inclusion in the implementation of SDGs organised by an NGO, Sightsavers Nigeria, on Wednesday in Abuja.
Dr Abdullahi Usman, National President, Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), called for bridging disability gaps and promoting good governance to address them.
“It is important to note that building an inclusive society goes beyond preparing PWDs for the workspace or providing them with skills.
“We are appealing to all relevant stakeholders both in public and private sector to accelerate action on the SDGs and ensure inclusion for PWDs.
“We all have equal rights to education, employment opportunities and health care, and the rights to have a say in the decisions that affect our lives,” he said.
He said Nigeria has an estimate of over 30 million PWDs, who are marginalised on the grounds of gender, poverty, age or other factors.
Mrs Esther Bature, Sightsavers Country Advocacy Coordinator, said the forum was for PWDs members in Nigeria to review mid-term implementation of the disability inclusion in the SDGs.
Bature explained that the upcoming SDG summit, as part of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) scheduled for Sept.18 and 19 was an opportunity for the voices of PWDs in Nigeria to be heard.
He said that their voices would be heard in the implementation of all inclusive SDGs.
“This is an extraordinary opportunity for the voices of PWDs to be heard in the highest echelon.
“So we work with the JONAPWD to mobilise their members across the geopolitical zones, across disability clusters to come together and hold a consultation about the SDG implementation at the grassroots.
“This is to ensure that recommendations made to our government so that when they go to the SDG Summit, they will make commitments that are inclusive.”
According to her, Sightsavers has collaborated with the Office of the Senior Special Adviser to the President on SDG (OSSAP-SDGS), in shadow reporting for the Voluntary National Review (VNR).
Dr Zakariya Mohammed, Deputy Director, OSSAP-SDGs, said the meeting was crucial toward ensuring inclusion in the implementation of the SDGs for PWDs. (NAN)
Rebecca Olatunji is a well-known advocate on sign language. She is the convener of “I can sign” program, a respected advocate for deaf inclusion in Nigeria. She is also the Executive Director of Collaborating Hands, CODAH, a program birthed out of her will to promote the linguistic and cultural identity of the Deaf community and to ensure their inclusion in society. In this interview with Inclusive News Network, she gave insights into the reasons and motives behind establishing “I can Sign” program. Excerpts.
What is the “I Can Sign” program all about?
The “I Can Sign” program is a pet project of CODAH that started in 2019. It was inspired by my background as the child of deaf adults, usually referred to as CODAs.
Growing up, my parents and only sister, who is also deaf, had to either rely on me or my brothers to communicate with the hearing world. If neither of us were available, communication would be interrupted or might never take place. I also struggled with people’s perceptions of my background, which was mostly due to the communication barriers that exist between the two worlds. Research has found that there is a stigma associated with hearing loss in developing countries and a high level of unconscious stigmatization of deaf people, which is caused by their inability to exchange information with hearing people except with a few trained individuals.
The “I Can Sign” (ICS) program is not just a project; it is my passion to create a world where barriers no longer exist between the deaf and hearing worlds. It seeks to bridge the communication gap while educating the general public on the conscious and unconscious biases that have contributed to the stigmatization of people who are deaf. This is so that the misconceptions, myths, and marginalization that exist in society against the deaf will be curbed or closed entirely.
By teaching sign languages and using the “I Can Sign” program to cater to different age groups as well as communities, CODAH has reached over 5,000 people. In 2020, we won our first global award, ‘The Opportunity Desk Impact Award, which allowed us to expand the “I Can Sign” program to not just train individuals and children but also train parents and families of deaf children.
Now, thanks to ‘The Pollination Grant Awards, we have been able to expand into more communities, training over 50 families in the Surulere local government of Lagos State, Nigeria.
How does it benefit people who want to be part of the program?
The “I Can Sign” program does not only seek to teach sign languages. It also builds the capacity of individuals to become advocates for the deaf or sign language trainers themselves.
The program is divided into three sub-projects, which are the I Can Sign Fellows, I Can Sign School, and I Can Sign Family projects. It caters to hearing students, parents of deaf children, caregivers, and individuals from different walks of life. This means that as a participant, you will fit into any of these categories, which offer tailored courses and training relevant to each target group.
Using this approach has been effective in helping us create a vibrant and sustainable model for promoting a deaf-inclusive society at the local level. We call it the bottom-up approach, which is helping us create a movement where voices are heard and ideas are exchanged.
What other things do you offer?
We offer other varied programs and services, such as:
• Business development training for deaf women to support their already-established businesses
• Early intervention programs for children who are deaf, hard of hearing, or experiencing speech delay between ages 0 and 6 years
• Specialized sign language programs for both primary and secondary students
• Home tutoring services for children who are deaf and hard of hearing to aid their academic progress and development
• Lastly, we offer sign language interpretation services for your training, events, or personal needs.
You can reach us today and be sure to have a good experience and get quality service.
With sign language gaining momentum with each activity being carried out by the deaf/sign language interpreters community in creating awareness on sign language, especially in Nigeria, what is your advice to newbies who may be interested in learning the language?
Learning sign language has a lot of benefits, and you can become as fluent as a native, but first get the idea that ‘Sign language learning is hard’ out of your mind.
•Like learning other languages, it requires time, but not as much time if you are committed to learning and, at the same time, consistent with practicing.
•Three months is too short to attain fluency; it can take up to three years, but your progress is very much dependent on how frequently you use this language.
•This will bring me to my 4th point: the best way to learn a language is by using it, so if you don’t have native signers around you, find a community of deaf people or an organization that works with them to volunteer with.
•Invest in learning; don’t just stop at learning from online platforms, books, or apps. Get a tutor or join a community of signers. Sign language isn’t an inferior language that you can only learn for free; invest in getting quality training and, most especially, network with other signers.
•Lastly, don’t just learn from everyone you see, especially online. Be sure of the kind of sign language you want to learn because there are more than 300 different sign languages in use around the world and different local signs used in Nigeria. Do your fact-findings, and that can guide you on where and who to learn from.
Why is this particular sub-project focused on the parents or families of deaf children?
90 to 95% of deaf children are born to hearing parents who often don’t know sign language. What this means is that most deaf children are deprived of language from birth. Children need language to flourish, and when deprived of it, they will not thrive. Research has shown that deaf babies who learn to sign early do better across a range of measures, including academic achievement, than children who don’t. When children don’t get adequate exposure to language, their brains don’t develop properly. They become socially and emotionally isolated and vulnerable to other kinds of abuse as well.
There have been cases of deaf children being sexually and emotionally abused, but they cannot communicate with or report the perpetrators to their parents or relevant authorities. Most of these parents have to wait until school resumes before they can understand the plights of their deaf kids. They rely heavily on trained teachers who can communicate with their children or interpret for them. This impacts these children negatively, making them unlikely to reach their full potential.
A huge communication gap exists between deaf children, their families, and their environment, which needs to be filled. Parents need to be informed and trained, their communities need to be educated and trained, awareness needs to be raised, and there’s a lot more that needs to be done to bridge these gaps, and that is what we are doing with the I Can Sign Initiative.
International Day of Sign Language and International Week of the Deaf are just around the corner. What’s your advice to the deaf, hard of hearing and sign language interpreter communities?
It is yet another time for us to raise awareness of the significance of sign languages to deaf people as well as other sign language users.
Let us use this week to do something significant, no matter how small. Don’t say, What can I do? You can do a lot. You can plan a mini-awareness project. You can teach basic signs or use your social media platforms to talk about sensitive social issues surrounding deaf people. You can do a street interview using your phone or even as little as make a deaf friend today, and vice versa for deaf people. You can also join or support other organizations to mark this day. All I am saying is: get creative, get involved, and don’t be left out!
The journey towards achieving a deaf-inclusive society isn’t just for some people. It is for everyone, and we need one another to make it a reality.
Thank for your time
You are welcome
It’s common occurrence here and there to see Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) throwing thorny stones against certain members of the society for what they often perceived as a deliberate discrimination and unjustified exclusion in political participation. But the story is quite different to one Musa Inuwa, an indigene of Niger state who has seen it all as far as political participation is concerned.
In this piece, INN correspondent examines the various political journeys and accomplishment achieved by the young, vibrant and courageous politician of note.
Comrade Musa Inuwa was born to the family of late Alhaji Muhammad Inuwa Ishaq (Dan Darman Zazzau Suleja) in Suleja local government, Niger state. He lost his hearing ability in the year 2010 due to protracted illness. This misfortune, however, did not hinder him from obtaining quality education as he battled from front to front to ensure he obtains an NCE certificate in Special Education from the prostigious Federral College of Education (special), Oyo.
Since then he has rose to become the current National Disabled Leader of APC under the aegis of APC National Youth Ambassadors. As if that was not enough, he also held countless positions on PWD affairs from various political associations and network across the country.
Due to his myriads of contributions in mobilizing the youth for APC that lead to it’s resounding victories in Niger state in particular, and the country at large, especially the youth with disabilities, he was recently rewarded for his countless service to the ruling party’s excellent performance by a political group known as ‘Coalition of Zone B APC Youth’ under the chairmanship of Comrade Jameelu Saleehu.
INN reports that the coalition of Zone B APC Youth is a political group that mobilize citizens of Niger state zone ‘B’ to endorse best candidates and to assist in promoting and propagating candidates manifesto to the all local governments across the state including grassroots to support and vote for the ruling party APC.
Responding as a worthy recipient of the coveted award, Comrade Musa Inuwa says the award is very dear to him and can spur him to do more in politics.
“This award is very much important for me and my personal development and journey in politics”
He also told INN correspondent in a telephone chat that the Coalition of Zone B APC Youth as a political association does its inclusion by welcoming PWD to contribute their political ideas and strategies. I very much appreciate and thank the members for giving me a huge love and cooperation.
” I cannot believe that I deserve such enviable award standing out of many other members but I accept it as it recognises my contributions and inspires me to work harder to fulfill the aim and purpose journey. This will surely inspire other PWD to participate in politics to balance the equality in the society and also inculcate politicians and top public officers to open their arm welcoming PWD in politics and be aware that PWD can contribute largely to the society in term of economic, education and politics. This is to authenticate the well known phrase that “there’s ability in disability”.
INN reports that, the Comrade, has achieved a lot in his capacity as a representative for PWDs in all the political groups he belongs. He has so far achieved a lots in the derive to ensure the youths and especially youths with disabilities participate actively in politics.
Among the myriads of political activities he organized many times in honour of Tinubu/Bago/313 group include the conduction of press conference to disseminate to the good people of Niger East vision and Mission of Tinubu/Bago/313 campaign movement, mobilizing persons with Disabilities from various LGA across the state to appoint APC chairmen for each cluster of disability, almost all LGAs had chairmen through election/consensus, drawing the attention of APC key officials to receive and recognize the active participation and presence of disabled people during rally/ campaign to showcase their loyalty and endorsement, donating 40 books of American sign language to the Niger state school for Special Education Minna on behalf of Tinubu/Bago/313, among others.
As a result of Comrade Musa’s tremendous contributions particularly in mobilizing disabled members nationwide to cast their votes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor of Niger state Bago and Senator 313 which led to their victory at the poll, these can be the reasons that he deserved this enviable award.
It was gethered that apart from this recent award, the young, vibrant PED politician of note has received several awards to his credit the award from APC Youth Stakeholders forum on 15 July, 2023 at Shehu Musa Yar’uda center Abuja, which was presented to him as a result of his tremendous contributions and efforts in mobilizing persons with disabilities nationwide to endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu which led to his victory at the just concluded election this year was a prime example of such awards.
While reacting to the development in a telephone chart with INN Correspondent, the APC Disabled Leader who was very excited for being singled out for such important recognition said he was very happy to be recognized for what he did.
“I am the only one out of 36 state including FCT among disabled members who received such award.This is indeed a proud to my state, Niger state”
“I feel very encouraged by this recognition and am happy to hear that my efforts are recognised. This will only push me to do more”
He added, “I have no regret for being a member of APC, I’m fully respected by people in politics as they always carry me along in their assignments to allow me to make my contributions”.
“I appreciate APC and everyone who contributed in one way or the other to my political journey and I wish this kindness will be exceeded. Kindness is the tool that PWDs feel like they are not in any other worst conditions”
” Thank you for the recognition of my tremendous contribution towards APC Youths engagement and selfless service to humanity and presented awards to me by deputy chairman” he concluded
The Minister of Sports, Sen. John Owan-Enoh has pledged more support for the development of para-sports in Nigeria.
Enoh made the pledge on Monday in Abuja following Nigeria’s encouraging participation at the maiden 2023 African Para Games in Accra.
The minister, in a statement issued by Mohammed Manga, Director of Press in the ministry, congratulated Team Nigeria for making the nation proud at the games, “in spite financial challenges”.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that team Nigeria has so far clinched two medals in the women’s wheel chair tennis, singles and doubles categories.
“We are passionate about support for para-sports; we will ensure that the medium already created and dedicated to coordinate, promote and manage the development of para-sports in Nigeria is strengthened for better performance.
“We will make it possible to utilise para-sports as a veritable tool for accelerated social integration and inclusion of persons with disabilities,” he said.
Enoh said the President Bola Tinubu-led administration was committed to using sports to empower people living with disabilities and tackle poverty.
He called on relevant stakeholders to join government in developing para-sports in the country with a view to giving the athletes a sense of belonging.
NAN reports that the games, which began on Sept. 3 with more than 20 countries participating, will end on Tuesday. (NAN)
The Coalition of Persons Living with Disabilities in Nigeria (CPLWDN) has lauded the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) for complying with the Disability Prohibition Act.
It urged the National Commission for Persons With Disability to publicly recognise NDIC as that would serve as a reminder to other agencies to also follow suit.
The coalition made the commendation during a press conference led by its national coordinator, Mallam Mohammed Musa Zaria and national secretary Comrade David Olarewaju yesterday in Abuja while congratulating the managing director/chief executive officer of NDIC, Mr Bello Hassan, on his recent appointment as vice chairperson of the International Association of Deposit Insurers, African Regional Committee (IADI-ARC).
Zaria said, “Our coalition, consisting of over 45 groups of different clusters of our community from the Six Geopolitical Zones of the country, has come together to collectively make our voice heard and commend Nigerians for the support given to our members and organisation.
“We express our sincere gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for recognising Mr. Hassan’s exceptional performance and retaining him in his position as the head of NDIC. NDIC under his tenure has restored the confidence of Nigerians in the banking sector leading to investor confidence and increase in the volume of banking transactions daily.
“Most importantly, the NDIC stands out as the sole organisation in Nigeria that continues to focus on inclusiveness, aligning perfectly with the renewed hope agenda of the present administration. In celebrating his successes, we believe that he will do more to change the perception and attitude of most Nigerians towards people with disabilities.”
The coalition also called on the National Commission of Persons with Disabilities as a matter of patriotic urgency under the able leadership of its executive secretary, Mr James Lalu, to promptly present a certificate of compliance to Alhaji Hassan on behalf of NDIC.
It stated that credible information at their disposal indicates that the agency has diligently adhered to the 2018 Disability Prohibition Act by ensuring that the stipulated percentage of jobs is allocated to disability community in all recruitment processes under his leadership.
“It is glaring that under Mr. Hassan’s exceptional leadership, the NDIC has played a pivotal role in contributing to the financial system stability of our nation’s economy.
“The corporation’s diligence and commitment to repositioning insurance practices in Nigeria have been recognised both locally and globally. Under his leadership, NDIC conducted a review of the maximum deposit insurance coverage, aligning with international standards set by the International Association of Deposit Insurers (IADI), a feat recognised by international agencies including the MacArthur Foundations.
“We celebrate inclusiveness and would want to be included in policy formulation and governance. We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to do more in supporting our cause. While the National Assembly has done well in the area of legislation, we want effective enforcement mechanisms to drive the laws,” they added.
Hon. Dr. Bashiru Ayinla Dawodu, chairman, House of Representative Committee on Disability, has assured of the committee’s commitment to ensure full implementation of the Nigerians with Disabilities Act, 2018, UN CRPD & SDGs, 2030 Agenda alongside the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, H.E. Ahmed Bola Tinubu.
He made the commitment during a courtesy visit by Centre for Advocacy for Persons with Disabilities (CAPWD) lead by the Executive Director, Omotunde Ellen Thompson at his office in Abuja.
In a resolute commitment to empower and uplift Nigerians with disabilities, the House Standing Committee on Disability, chairman, Hon. Dr. Bashiru Ayinla Dawodu, representing Oshodi-Isolo of Lagos State, has embarked on a mission to ensure the comprehensive implementation of the Nigerians with Disabilities Act, 2018, the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), 2030 Agenda. This endeavor is being undertaken in conjunction with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda
The administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has taken on numerous challenges, including insecurity, kidnapping, terrorism, and community unrest. It has been recognized that a significant contributing factor to these challenges is the neglect of Nigerians with Disabilities, who often suffer traumas that lead to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), an invisible psychological disability. President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aims to address these challenges and provide hope for all Nigerians, especially the vulnerable.
To strengthen and facilitate the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, unveiled 134 different Standing Committees, including the Standing Committee on Disability. Hon. Dr. Bashiru Ayinla Dawodu and Hon. Adamu Sani, both dedicated to improving the lives of disabled Nigerians, were appointed to lead this unique committee.
The House Standing Committee on Disability, led by Hon. Dr. Dawodu, has wasted no time in fulfilling its constitutional legislative oversight fiduciary duties. This proactive approach is aimed at finding holistic sustainable solutions to the challenges hindering the successful implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities mandate.
The committee is also committed to initiating reasonable reforms that will bolster the Commission for Persons with Disabilities and align it with President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
In addition to addressing legislative and policy reforms, the committee suggested that there is an urgent need for Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) in Nigeria to realign with the guidelines of Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). This should be carried out after rigorous investigating of allegations of multiple misconduct(s) and gross disobedience which has been happening since 2008 till date.
A significant step in this commitment was the High-Level Round-table meeting on September 5th, 2023, with Miss Omotunde Ellen Thompson, Chairperson Board of Trustees (BoT) and Pioneer/Co-Founder of JONAPWD. Miss Thompson, recognized as Nigeria’s PWDs Lifelong “Godmother of Disability Civil Rights & Advocacy MOVEMENT,” represented the voices of JONAPWD leaders from 36 States/FCT and Diasporas, including Chairpersons, Secretaries, Women Leaders, and Wounded Military Veterans, Police, Civil Defense, ICPC, DSS, EFCC and all other law Enforcement Agents, who suffered from Physical and PTSD or Mental Disabilities.
Miss Thompson emphasized that the primary impediment to the well-being of over 31 million Nigerians with Disabilities under JONAPWD is the lack of proper implementation of existing laws governing their operations, especially the lack of compliance with the 2008 JONAPWD Constitution and CAC guidelines. Other laws includes the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018 (Nigerians with Disabilities Act, 2018), UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), Disability-Inclusive Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), 2030 Agenda, and more.
In response, Hon. Dr. Dawodu pledged to use the committee’s constitutional legislative oversight fiduciary duties to amend the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, in alignment with the UN CRPD mandates. He also committed to ensuring that the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) adheres to the provisions of the National Assembly’s Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018. Also, he emphasize on the need of persons with disabilities to adhere to rule of law and order in the discharged of their duties, while under his committee, he will live to protect and promote the rights of over 31millions Nigerian with disability, irrespective of political affiliation, type of disability, nationality, religion and state of origin.
Hon. Dr. Dawodu also promised to enhance awareness creation of the 5% employment reservation my MDAs and private sectors, so that persons with disabilities who are qualified can be gainfully employed. This will go along way to reduced poverty among the disable community in Nigeria.
Furthermore, Hon. Dr. Dawodu stressed the importance of reforming and restructuring the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD-National) without delay. This includes full compliance with the National Assembly’s 2020 R-enacted & repealed Company and Allied Matters Act of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and the JONAPWD 2008 Constitution.
Finally, Hon Dr Dawodu, vowed to use his oversight constitutional powers to ensure that the history of Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018, under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons as implemented by the National Commission of Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria is collected, written and documented for future generation.
The House Standing Committee on Disability says “it is dedicated to achieving inclusivity and empowerment for Nigerians with Disabilities and is determined to contribute to the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda”.