Biu, Borno State — The Sound Abilities for Vulnerable Women Initiative (SAVWIN) has intensified its advocacy for the inclusion of persons with disabilities in governance and community development, with a recent engagement in Biu Local Government Area.
On 12th August 2025, the Executive Director of SAVWIN, Miyausa Wayuta Mshelia, accompanied by Biu staff officer Mr. Samuel Musa and a team of volunteers, paid an advocacy visit to the Chairman of Biu Local Government.
During the visit, Mshelia passionately appealed for the inclusion of women with disabilities in local government activities to ensure that no group is left behind in decision-making and development programs. She also drew attention to the dire condition of the Special Needs School in Biu, which currently accommodates seven pupils. According to her, the school facility is in such a dilapidated state that its collapsing walls pose a serious danger to the children.
In his response, the Chairman admitted he was unaware of the school’s existence and acknowledged the urgent need for intervention. He requested that the full details of the school, which had earlier been submitted to the Emir of Biu, be forwarded to his official email, while urging SAVWIN to follow up within the week. The Chairman further praised SAVWIN for initiating such an important advocacy project, describing it as a commendable step toward giving voice to the voiceless in Biu and across Borno State. He also wished the delegation a safe return journey.
From the Chairman’s office, the SAVWIN team proceeded to the Emir’s Palace, where they were warmly received by the Emir’s Secretary on behalf of the Emir and the Emirate Council. In his remarks, the Secretary disclosed that the Emir had already summoned leaders of the Christian Association and the Council of Imams for a joint meeting at the council chambers. At the meeting, a directive would be issued mandating the enrollment of all children with special needs into schools within the Emirate. He further assured that the Emir would be reminded to contact the Borno State Commissioner of Education to ensure proper government intervention.
The decisive action was promoted by SAVWIN's earlier advocacy visit to the Emirate Council where she meet face to face with the Emir and had discussions
In her closing remarks, Mshelia expressed gratitude to the Emir’s Secretary and the entire Emirate Council for their commitment to addressing the plight of children with disabilities. She further appealed for the inclusion of women with disabilities in all Emirate and community programs, stressing that genuine progress can only be achieved when inclusivity becomes a shared priority.
“Our mission in SAVWIN is to ensure that the most vulnerable — particularly women and children with disabilities — are not forgotten. We believe that when local governments and traditional institutions take the lead in promoting inclusion, real change will follow. Together, we can build communities where every individual is valued, protected, and given equal opportunities to thrive,” Mshelia stated.
With this development, SAVWIN has once again reaffirmed its mission of amplifying the voices of vulnerable women and children with disabilities, while promoting inclusive policies across Borno State and Nigeria at large.
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