Kwara Governor Calls for Greater Inclusivity for People with Disabilities
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has called for greater love, care, and inclusivity for people living with disabilities (PLWDs), emphasizing that they deserve the opportunity to excel and live fulfilling lives.
Speaking at a rally in Ilorin to mark the International Day of People Living with Disabilities, the Governor highlighted the importance of creating a compassionate and equitable society for people living with disabilities.
The event, titled “Walk Against Stigmatization of People Living With Disabilities,” was organized by comedian Yahya Habeeb Olatunji (Baba Kamo), and aimed to raise awareness about the need to end the stigma faced by PLWDs.
Participants, including PLWDs and students from the National Association of Kwara State Students (NAKSS), celebrated the event with placards reading messages of inclusion and empowerment. Governor AbdulRazaq, represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Sheu Usman Ndanusa, reiterated the administration’s commitment to treating PLWDs with dignity and integrating them into government policies and programs. He urged the public to embrace and appreciate PLWDs, emphasizing that they are intelligent and contribute meaningfully to society.
The Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Nafisat Buge, also expressed support for people living with disabilities, stressing that they are an integral part of the community. She encouraged them to take pride in their abilities and reject any form of discrimination while noting that the government continues to prioritize their care and inclusion. The Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Coach Bola Magaji, highlighted the achievements of PLWDs in sports, urging parents to provide special care for their children with disabilities to help them reach their full potential.
The event’s convener, Yahya Habeeb Olatunji, emphasized the importance of changing societal perceptions about PLWDs, and advocating for better treatment and inclusion. He also announced the upcoming launch of a movie, “Moyomi,” which focuses on the challenges faced by PLWDs and aims to spread the message of respect and dignity for all individuals, regardless of their disabilities. Participants, like Abdulkadir Bilikis Abolore, a physically impaired individual, expressed gratitude for the sensitization campaign, calling for more love, inclusion, and opportunities for PLWDs to thrive.
