TheCable

Shehu Sani, the former senator representing Kaduna central, has asked the federal government to give 25 percent of post-subsidy palliatives to persons living with disabilities (PWDs).

Speaking on Friday during a visit to James Lalu, executive secretary, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Sani said the PWDs “face double tragedy”.

He said the 25 percent consideration is necessary given the economic challenges of over 35 million citizens who grapple not only with disabilities but also poverty.

“I am happy that you have been able to carry out your mandate as a commission even with the meagre resources,” Sani said while addressing Lalu.

“I commend your hard work and that of the management in ensuring that the mandate of the commission was followed through.

“My relationship with them is not political but a matter of personal conviction.

“It has always been a passion to ensure that persons with disabilities are given the opportunity to contribute to national development.

“I have always enquired to ensure that the commission is directly connected to the people it was created for.”

Also speaking, Lalu called on Nigerians to support the commission to enable it to carry out its responsibilities.

“One could rarely see a family without persons with disabilities,” he said.

“As such, we are calling on well-meaning Nigerians to support this commission to properly serve those it was established for.

“We do not need handouts. We are smart and intelligent and when given the opportunity we will contribute to the development of Nigeria.”

He thanked Sani for always having the PWDs at heart and commended the federal government for providing job opportunities for some PWDs.