Abuja: The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has extended support to the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA) Special Needs School by donating various assistive devices. The initiative aims to facilitate the learning process for children with disabilities.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Ayuba Gufwan, the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, emphasized the commission’s commitment to promoting the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities (PWDs) throughout Nigeria during the donation ceremony. Gufwan highlighted that the provision of these devices is not merely a donation but an opportunity to ensure that every child, regardless of disability, can learn and achieve their full potential.
Gufwan stated, “We see assistive devices as tools of empowerment; they help to improve communication, enhance mobility, support independent living, and remove barriers to quality education and full participation in every societal activity.” He further noted that this intervention aligns with the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, and the commission’s commitment to advancing inclusive education.
Represented by Dr. Kehinde Ogunbiyitan, Head of the Education Unit of the Commission, Gufwan commended NAFOWA for its partnership in this significant initiative. He pointed out that promoting disability inclusion is a shared responsibility that involves collaboration among various stakeholders, including the government, development partners, civil society, the private sector, and the broader community.
Dr. Ismail Idris, Head of the Assistive Devices and Technology Unit of the NCPWD, shared that the commission assessed the children at the school to ensure appropriate assistance was provided. The devices donated include 10 pediatric wheelchairs, three standing frames, three bath chairs, a sign language dictionary, braille materials, and others.
Mrs. Ngozi Aneke, the National President of NAFOWA, represented by her Vice, Mrs. Aisha Ramalla, expressed gratitude for the donations, acknowledging the value they bring to the school. The Head Teacher, Mrs. Grace Odeleye, also expressed appreciation, noting the challenges the school faced before receiving assistance from NCPWD.
Mrs. Semble Olanrewaju, the School Supervisor and NAFOWA National Head of Programmes, expressed her excitement and assured that the devices would be effectively utilized to enhance the children’s learning capabilities. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the officers later toured the school, inspecting therapy, dining, and nap rooms, among other facilities.