Reports complied by Yahaya Yusuf Kumo, Yusuf Mohammed Lawan and Safiyanu Ibrahim Bappah
Gombe State has joined the global community in commemorating the 2024 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). This year's theme, "Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for a Sustainable and Inclusive Future," resonates deeply with the state's commitment to disability inclusion.
In a statement, Ishiyaku Adamu, Chairman of the Gombe State Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), expressed gratitude to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for his administration's dedication to the welfare of persons with disabilities (PWDs).
The Gombe State Disability Bill, which has been passed by the State House of Assembly, awaits the Governor's assent. This legislation is expected to protect the rights of PWDs, promote inclusivity, and ensure equal opportunities for all.
Adamu emphasized the importance of amplifying the leadership of PWDs, creating avenues for them to lead in governance, education, economic empowerment, and community development. He also stressed the need for accessible infrastructure, inclusive education, equitable employment opportunities, and comprehensive healthcare services.
He said "the Gombe State Government has demonstrated its commitment to disability inclusion through the passage of the Disability Bill and the establishment of the Gombe State Disability Commission.
As the state celebrates this year's IDPD, Adamu renewed his call for Governor Yahaya to assent to the Disability Bill, which will breathe life into the provisions of the bill and ensure that the rights of PWDs are protected and upheld".
Earlier in her remarks, the Gombe state First Lady, Her Excellency Haj. Asma'u Mohammed Inuwa Yahaya who was represented by the Commissioner Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Asma'u Mohammed Iganus congratulated the Gombe state PWDs community for believing in themselves and defying disability amid though economic challenges to achieve their goals in life.
She said "I congratulates you on behalf of the government and the good people of Gombe state on this august occasion of the commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD)"
The First Lady also in response to the urgent request made by the chairman of Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) Adamu Ishaku requesting the government to prioritize signing the Gombe state Disability Bill into law, emphasized the state government commitment to ensuring the prompt passage and domestication of the National Discrimination Against Persons With Disabilities (prohibation) Act, 2018 in Gombe state.
She noted, " As we convened here today to identify with everyone of you on this special day, I assure you that we will soon convene here again to celebrate the commissioning of the Gombe state Disability Commission by His Excellency Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya"
Adding that, "the good news is the bill has already been passed by the leadership of Gombe State House of Assembly, what remains is for the Governor to officially assent to the bill. This would be done when His Excellency return to the state"
The former SSA to the Governor on Disability matter Hon. Yakubu Ahmed urged the disability community to continue praying for Allah's guidance, seeking the Governor's signature on the disability bill. He expressed optimism that the Governor will sign the bill soon, believing that by next year's International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDD), the community will witness significant positive changes. He wished the disability community a happy IDD and a safe trip home.
The Chairman of the Blind Association, Gombe State branch, emphasized that it is the Ministry of Women Affairs responsibility to persuade the Governor to sign the disability bill, which will greatly benefit the disability community in Gombe.
Comrade Blessed Charles, Chairman of the Gombe State Association of the Deaf, appealed to the Governor to sign the disability bill into law, now that the State Assembly has completed its work. He prayed that God would touch the Governor's heart to sign the bill, expressing confidence that the Governor, known for his love and understanding of persons with disabilities, will make history by being the first Governor to approve the disability bill in Gombe State. This milestone will leave a lasting legacy beyond 2027.
Comrade Blessed also extended his gratitude to the former SSA for his tireless efforts in pushing the disability bill forward and to the Chairman of JONAPWD for his coordination. He encouraged all members to remain united as one family.
More pictures from the event below:
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