By Abubakar Adamu Kuta
Niger State Government has reiterated commitment to engendering inclusion and dignity of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) and special needs in accordance with the New Niger Agenda of Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago led administration.
This was disclosed by the Secretary to the Government of Niger State (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman during a commemorative 2025 World International Day of Persons with Disabilities organised by Empowerment Initiative of Persons with Disability Forum in Minna.
The SSG represented by the Permanent Secretary Political Affairs and Documentation, ESV James Bake said Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago was running an inclusive government where no was left behind including Persons with special needs.
He pointed out that the government was poised to improving the standard of living of the people adding that the present administration’s policy of inclusivity had prioritized well-being of physically challenged persons including offer of not only political but permanent and pensionable appointments to persons with disabilities.
Alhaji Usman said the essence of the appointments was to among others, affirm the commitment of the present Administration of inclusion and equity for persons Living with Disabilities and ensure significant impact on their lives.
“Today, we join the global community to celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a day set aside to promote dignity, inclusion, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities and special needs.
“This day reminds us that disability is not inability. Persons with disabilities are talented, resilient, and capable of making meaningful contributions to our society when given the right support and an enabling environment. Inclusion is not an act of charity; it is a matter of justice, equity, and human rights”
He said “As we commemorate this year’s Disability Day, I want to assure you that Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago led administration remains steadfast in its commitment to prioritising the needs of all persons with special needs ”
The SSG encouraged People Living With Disabilities to invest in themselves, acquire needed skills for self development, get new ideas and embrace technology as part of the requirements to thrive in today’s world.
Highlight of the event included presentation of goodwill messages by representatives of various Institutions, senior government officials including Commissioner of Information and Orientation, Hon. Obed Nuhu Nana, presentation of papers on empowering persons with disabilities, presentation of awards among others.