In Lokoja, the National Association of Persons With Physical Disabilities (NAPWPD) has issued a heartfelt plea to government bodies, corporations, and affluent individuals, urging them to increase the provision of wheelchairs and allocate funds to enhance accessibility for their members.
During a press conference marking the International Wheelchair Day, Mr. Rilwan Mohammed, the National President of NAPWPD, underscored the critical role wheelchairs play in the lives of millions worldwide. Despite their significance, he lamented the unfortunate reality that many in need are unable to access them.
Highlighting the founding of International Wheelchair Day in 2008, Mohammed stressed its mission to raise awareness and advocate for improved accessibility and support for wheelchair users globally. He emphasized the importance of promoting inclusivity and making the world more accessible for all individuals.
Calling upon state governments to expedite the adoption of disability laws and develop minimum accessibility standards, Mohammed urged for budgetary allocations to facilitate necessary modifications to existing infrastructure. He emphasized the need for strict adherence to building codes and accessibility standards, urging against the approval of new buildings that fail to comply.
Mohammed urged both governmental and societal stakeholders to adjust environmental conditions to foster the inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities in community life.
In a significant development, a 14-member Kogi State Advocacy Committee of Inclusive Budgeting was inaugurated during the event, chaired by Mr. Aliyu Muraina of Kogi Non-Governmental Networks (KONGONet). Mohammed tasked the committee with working collaboratively to improve the living conditions of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in the state.
Expressing gratitude for the appointment, Muraina pledged the committee’s commitment to delivering tangible results that would positively impact PWDs’ lives.
The event concluded with the presentation of a Certificate of Commendation to Alhaji Momoh Jimoh, the Immediate Past Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kogi State Council, in recognition of the council’s pioneering efforts in providing ramps for PWDs’ easy access.
