TheCable

Mohammed Abba Isa, the senior special assistant (SSA) on special needs and equal opportunities to President Bola Tinubu, has officially launched the distribution of food palliatives to persons with disabilities (PWDs) across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

The ceremony took place on Thursday at the Karu LGA secretariat in Nasarawa state.

Isa said the initiative led by his office aims to support at least 500 households by providing them with essential food supplies.

He commended Abdullahi Sule, Nasarawa state governor, for his commitment to improve the lives of PWDs by establishing a commission for them and appointing two special assistants (SAs) on disability.

The distribution will continue across the remaining zones starting with the north-east and north-west before moving to the southern regions.

A committee was established to ensure a smooth exercise, working with LGA officials, traditional and religious institutions, civil society organisations (CSOs) and disability organisations to identify beneficiaries.

According to the organisers, the north-east affected by the Boko haram insurgency will target about 1,000 beneficiaries because of high number of PWDs and vulnerable groups.

Isa also announced Beyond Disability Project, an upcoming programme meant to empower PWDs through talent and skill development, and the creation of a comprehensive database of PWDs in Nigeria to understand their needs and plan for them.

Representatives from the ministry of humanitarian affairs and poverty alleviation and Nigeria Association of the Blind (NAB) commended Isa for his commitment to alleviate the hardship facing PWDs.

LGA and community leaders expressed their support and readiness to partner with stakeholders to improve the lives of PWDs.