Group seeks special ministry for PWDs

The Joint Association of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), has called on the Federal and States Government to create a special ministry that would cater for their needs.

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Mr Shindol Adamu, Chairman of the association in Plateau, made the call during a news conference to commemorate the 2024 International Day for Persons with Disabilities, on Tuesday in Jos.

Adamu said that such move would promote absolute inclusion of PWDs in policy formulation in the country.

According to the chairman, the theme for this year’s celebration, “Amplifying the Leadership of PWDs for inclusion and Sustainable Future,” is timely.

“The theme underscores the critical importance of recognising, empowering and amplifying the voices of PWDs.

“This is about ensuring that PWDs are given opportunities to influence policies, make decisions and contribute meaningfully to the development of our society.

“Yes, we have a commission at the federal level and in some states, however, critical decisions and policies are made at the level of executive council, where we don’t have representation. This is why we are calling on the federal and states government to establish a special ministry that will solely handle issues of PWDs,” he said.

Adamu also said that PWDs were still suffering social and economic discrimination, stigmatisation and poor employment opportunities in the society.

“Most PWDs suffer to pay themselves through school, many of us are blessed with talents and innovative skills, yet organisation hardly employ us.

“This is why we are calling on the government and even private organisations, to consider PWDs in the area of employment; we have a lot to contribute to nation building,” he said.

He, however, thanked both local and international Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) advocating for the inclusion of PWDs in the society.

NAN/Wumi