By Blessing Ibegbu

Rep. Jonathan Gaza (SDP-Nasarawa) has urged Persons with Disability (PWDs) to take advantage of the skills acquisition centre constructed by him to boost their self-esteem and achieve economic independence.

Gaza, representing Karu, Keffi and Kokona Federal Constituency, gave the advice at the handing-over ceremony of the skills acquisition centre in Karu, Nasarawa State on Thursday.

He noted that the centre was established for their learning and to the betterment of the society at large.

Represented by Mr Hassan Bukhar, his Legislative Aide, the lawmaker said that the establishment of the centre would help the PWDs to actualise their desired dreams.

He emphasised that the centre would provide opportunities for PWDs to acquire valuable skills that would help them become more self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to the society.

“I recognise the challenges faced by PWDs, both physically and mentally among other reasons, and that informed my decision to establish the centre.

“The centre will offer effective skills acquisition such as training for bead making, tailoring, craft, hair dressing, culinary arts, and carpentry among others.

“We will ensure effective curriculum, and experts will be involved in the training of PWDs, so that our aim will be achieved and the desires of the disabled met.

“This is to ensure that PWDs are encouraged and carried along in the society,” he said.

Saleh Keana, Executive Chairman, Disability Rights’ Commission, thanked the lawmaker for the gesture and remarkable achievement of the handover of the beautiful structure of the skill acquisition centre.

“May God continue to bless, enrich and give you more wisdom to effectively carry out your assignments in every aspect of life,’’ he said.

He also thanked the executive governor of the state, Abdullahi Sule, for enhancing the lives of the physically challenged.

“The centre will be equipped by the government to provide conducive learning environment that will facilitate quick skill acquisition for their development,” he said.

Mr Hudu Baba, State Chairman, Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JNAPWD), appreciated Gaza for the initiative aimed at encouraging the physically challenged to fit into the society.

“The centre is first in the history of Karu and we are fully supporting it because it is a welcome development.

“Thanks to the lawmaker and his team for their hard work, cooperation and commitment, and we promise to support the project at any time.”

Mr David Maiyaki, Senior Special Adviser to Nasarawa State Governor on Assembly Matters, said it was imperative for PWDs to be recognised and given priority in the society.

Maiyaki appreciated Gaza for giving hope to PWDs and for being a champion of PWDs.

He commended the Nasarawa Governor for appointing one of the PWDs in his cabinet. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker