In a concerted effort to address the growing needs of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) across the country, the Executive Secretary, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Chief Ayuba Gufwan paid a courtesy visit to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, at the National Assembly recently in Abuja.
During the visit, the Executive Secretary passionately advocated for an increase in the 2025 budgetary allocation for the Commission from its current N4 billion to N60 billion. This substantial increase, according to the Executive Secretary, is critical to the Commission’s ability to deliver on its mandate, particularly in areas such as:
1. Scholarships for Persons with Disabilities: The proposed budget increase will provide vital educational opportunities for PWDs, ensuring that more individuals with disabilities can access higher education through scholarship programs.
2. Mobility Aids and Appliances: The funds will facilitate the procurement of essential mobility aids and assistive devices such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, and other critical equipment, improving the quality of life for thousands of PWDs across Nigeria.
3. Empowerment and Business Grants: To promote financial independence, the Commission seeks to introduce empowerment programs and offer business grants that will help PWDs start and grow their own enterprises, creating jobs and fostering economic inclusion.
4. Reconstruction and Renovation of Zonal Offices: The proposed allocation will also be used for the much-needed reconstruction and renovation of the Commission’s zonal offices, making them more accessible and capable of delivering services effectively.
5. Medical Outreach for PWDs: Increased funding will allow the Commission to expand its medical outreach programs, providing PWDs with access to critical healthcare services, which are often inaccessible due to geographic and financial barriers.
Speaking during the meeting, the Executive Secretary underscored the importance of the proposed budgetary increase, stating:
“The current allocation of N4 billion is grossly inadequate to meet the pressing needs of the over 35 million Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria. An increase to N60 billion will enable us to implement meaningful programs that will improve the lives of PWDs and ensure their full inclusion in society.”
In response, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dr. Tajudeen Abbas commended the Commission for its ongoing efforts and assured the Executive Secretary that the National Assembly would carefully consider the request for an increased budgetary allocation in line with the government’s commitment to promoting the welfare of all citizens, especially vulnerable groups.
The visit highlights the NCPWD’s unwavering commitment to advancing the rights and wellbeing of Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria, as the Commission continues to work toward a more inclusive and equitable society.
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