Visually Impaired Persons In Niger Seek Special Commission

Nigeria Association for the Blind (NAB) Niger State Chapter has sought inclusion and made a case for the Commission for the Physically Challenged in the state.

The chairman of the association Hamza Salihu made the appeal while speaking with  LEADERSHIP in Minna yesterday. He decried their plight and called for inclusivity.

He said that some states in the north have domesticated laws regarding the commission for the physically challenged, but most states, including Niger State, have yet to establish such a commission.

Salihu who was speaking against the backdrop of the ” international white cane day for the blind” advocated for the rights and dignity of persons with visual impairment.

He said that with the commission to cater for the physically challenged, there would be promotion of access to quality education, vocational training and employment opportunities for them.

“We call on the Niger state government to set up a commission for our well-being,  development partners, and  private  organisations should also  join in promoting the welfare and livelihood of visually impaired persons across the state”, he appealed.

He said that instead of begging, it was most dignifying to receive support from the government, so that visually impaired persons can thrive, contribute meaningfully to society, and live independently.