NGO Empowers Leprosy-affected Persons In Plateau

A non-governmental organisation, Leprosy and Tuberculosis Relief Nigeria (LTR), has empowered persons affected by leprosy in Plateau State as part of efforts to promote inclusion, restore dignity and enhance economic self-reliance.

According to a statement issued by the organisation’s communication and media officer, Saleh Farouq, the event showcased an exhibition of products made by beneficiaries of the organisation’s project, “Breaking Stigma Through Building Stories,” which aims to equip them with practical, income-generating skills.

The initiative, funded by Virtutis Opus Foundation through Netherlands Leprosy Relief, trained 25 persons affected by leprosy in vocations such as shoe-making, bag production, belt crafting, photography, and cinematography.

Speaking at the event, Head of Administration of LTR, Naomi Iye Idako, who represented the Executive Director, Dr Tahir Dahiru, said the programme was designed to go beyond skills acquisition by restoring dignity and addressing stigma associated with the disease.

She noted that the initiative had empowered beneficiaries to become self-reliant, stressing that persons affected by leprosy should be recognised for their potential rather than defined by their condition.

In his remarks, the Plateau State governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, who was represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr Nicholas Baamlong, commended the initiative, describing it as impactful. He said beneficiaries were already using their skills to support their families and rebuild their livelihoods.

He emphasised that leprosy should not be a basis for discrimination and called on the public to embrace affected persons as equal members of society.

Baamlong also announced a N5 million donation to support the sustainability of beneficiaries’ businesses and assured continued government support to enhance productivity and market access.

In his remarks, a representative of the beneficiaries, Markus Ali, expressed gratitude to the organisers and partners for restoring their hope and giving them a renewed sense of purpose.