Abuja: Members of the Nasara Physically Challenged Centre in Dei-Dei Community, Bwari Area Council, FCT, have appealed to government at all levels, corporate organisations, and well-meaning Nigerians for support. The members made the appeal in interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), listing needs in empowerment opportunities and inclusive initiatives.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, despite possessing vocational and professional skills, many persons with disabilities still face discrimination, unemployment, and lack of support. The Chairman of the centre, Mr Zailani Garba, highlighted that many physically challenged persons are skilled in tailoring, shoemaking, hairdressing, welding, soap making, and other trades but lack the tools needed to work effectively. Garba emphasized that access to necessary equipment would help them become self-reliant and enable them to provide for their children’s education.
Garba stated that government intervention through empowerment programs, vocational training, and financial support would greatly improve their standard of living. He urged for government support to enable persons with disabilities to contribute meaningfully to society, noting that many members have skills but lack the equipment and financial assistance needed to start or expand their businesses. He also appealed for the provision of disability equipment such as wheelchairs, crutches, and other mobility aids to assist physically challenged persons in their daily activities.
A shoemaker, Mr Usman Abubakar, expressed that many physically challenged persons are eager to become self-reliant but lack necessary support. Abubakar noted that they are not begging on the streets by choice and that with support like shoemaking machines, sewing machines, and other working tools, they could take care of their families. He added that empowerment programs and vocational grants are crucial for expanding their businesses.
Mrs Aisha Abdullahi, another member of the centre, pointed out that access to healthcare remains poor for many persons with disabilities, with some hospitals lacking facilities that adequately accommodate their needs. She called for better healthcare services and affordable treatment. Mrs Hafsat Garba urged authorities to create more inclusive policies promoting the welfare of persons with disabilities, noting that many artisans struggle to afford equipment and suitable workspaces.
Some residents who spoke with NAN also called for greater public awareness and inclusion of persons with disabilities in economic empowerment programs. Mr Abdullahi Usman urged the government to strengthen policies protecting the rights of persons with disabilities and ensure equal access to opportunities. He emphasized that skill acquisition and empowerment are vital tools for improving the living conditions of vulnerable groups. Usman also appealed to corporate organisations and philanthropists to partner with the centre in supporting persons with disabilities.