By Shafa’atu Suleiman, Sokoto
The Sokoto State government says it is committed to improving the socio-economic well-being of persons living with disability in the state.
Hajiya Amina Abubakar Kaoje, Head, State Agency for Disabilities stated this in Sokoto during the distribution of startup tools to persons with disabilities by the Leprosy Mission Nigeria.
Hajiya Kaoje notes that the present administration has put in place various inclusive policies and programs to support the socio-economic independence of persons with disabilities in the state.
She acknowledged the gesture of the Leprosy Mission for complimenting the effort of the state government.
According to her, the distribution of startup kits to the beneficiaries would alleviate poverty among vulnerable people within the state.
The organization program manager in the state, Mr. Jerry Ameh, while presenting the tools to the beneficiaries, said the gesture is in line to promote self-reliance and independence among persons with disabilities in Sokoto State.
The state program manager, Mr Amerh Jerry, said that the gesture is aimed to enable them to initiate or expand their own businesses, thereby reducing their dependence on others and street begging.
The program manager added that the organisation does not only empower persons with disabilities but also see them as an important segment of the society free of stigmatisation.
According to him: “Our organization is committed to supporting individuals with disabilities to achieve their full potential.
“We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to live a dignified and independent life.”
Earlier, the Sokoto state chairman, Non Governmental Organizations, Comrade Bello Shehu Gwadabawa, described the effort of the leprosy mission as commendable and generous
He also applauded the way the organisation has been supporting persons with disabilities in Sokoto and beyond.
Gwadabawa noted that despite the neglect of persons with disabilities in society, saying that, “The Leprosy Mission Nigeria has been playing a pivotal role in carrying them along.”
One of the beneficiaries, Fatima Muhammad, thanked the organisation for the gesture and promised to make effective use of the empowerment.
The items distributed include sewing machines, knitting machines, phone repair equipment, grinding machines, and other essential tools.