Zamfara Gov’t Extends Lifelines To Physically Challenged

The Zamfara State Government’s establishment of the Persons with Disabilities Board raised hope for better living conditions for persons living with disabilities.

This was announced by the Secretary of the Board, Dr. Bilyaminu Umar Kauran Namoda, while speaking on an Al’umma Television Gusau audience-participatory programme, “Shirin Ceton Al’umma”.

Mr Bilyaminu explained that with the establishment of the board, persons with disabilities in the state would enjoy inclusion and support from the government and development partners.

He said that the board was always ready to listen to the concerns of persons with disabilities with a view to addressing their difficulties and providing them with free education, qualitative healthcare services, employment, skills acquisition programmes and other livelihood support initiatives.

The secretary further stated that the administration of Governor Dauda Lawal had provided the board with the opportunity to learn from sister organisations in the country to identify effective strategies for improving the welfare of persons with disabilities.

He said during the board’s familiarisation visits to other states, it had gained knowledge about various interventions, including free education programmes and a five per cent employment quota for persons with disabilities.

Dr Bilyaminu commended Governor Dauda Lawal for providing members of the disability community in the state with employment opportunities during the state’s recent recruitment exercise, describing the gesture as a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to inclusiveness and equal opportunities.

He added that the board was currently engaging with the Zamfara State Ministry of Commerce and Industry to explore opportunities for involving its members in small-scale enterprises and other businesses that would promote self-reliance and economic independence.