By Collins Yakubu-Hammer
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), on Wednesday donated assistive devices to Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association Special Needs School to ease the learning process of the children.
Mr Ayuba Gufwan, the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, in an address at the occasion, said the commission was commited to promoting the rights and well-being of PWDs across Nigeria.
“Today’s event is more than the donation of assistive devices. It is about creating opportunities and ensuring that every child, regardless of disability, has the chance to learn, grow and achieve his or her full potential.
“We see assistive devices as tools of empowerment; they help to improve communication, enhance mobility, support independent living and remove barriers to quality education and full participation in every societal activity.
“This intervention reflects our mandate under the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, and our commitment to advancing inclusive education.
“To our dear children, these devices are an investment in your future. Use them confidently, continue to believe in yourselves and never allow your disability to limit your dreams.
“Your determination, talents and resilience are your greatest strengths. I sincerely commend the teachers, therapists, caregivers and parents for your dedication and unwavering support.
“Your efforts continue to transform lives and create opportunities for these children,” Gufwan said.
Gufwan, who was represented by the Head, Education Unit of the Commission, Dr Kehinde Ogunbiyitan, commended NAFOWA for partnering with the commission on the laudable initiative.
According to him, NAFOWA’s partnership is a reminder that promoting disability inclusion is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration among stakeholders- the government, development partners, civil society, the private sector and the wider community.
“As we present these assistive devices today, let us remember that inclusion is not an act of charity; it is a matter of rights, equity and justice.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to participate, succeed and contribute meaningfully to society,” Gufwan said.
Similarly, Dr Ismail Idris, Head, Assistive Devices and Technology Unit of the NCPWD, said the commission assessed the children in the school and to ensure the appropriate assistance.
He listed the devices to include 10 paediatric wheel chairs, three standing frames, three bath chairs, sign language dictionary, braille and many others.
In her response, the National President of NAFOWA, Mrs Ngozi Aneke, represented by her Vice, Mrs Aisha Ramalla, appreciated NCPWD for the donations.
“We appreciate the commission for bringing these beautiful equipment to us.
“They are going to add value to what we already have in the school,” Aneke said.
Also speaking, the Head Teacher of the School, Mrs Grace Odeleye, said the institution had little challenges before the assistance came from NCPWD.
“We are grateful for this. Thanks for putting smiles on the faces of our unique kids, who have the right to education to any level.
“We are so much grateful that NCPWD came down to do this great assistance for us,” Odeleye said.
The School Supervisor/ NAFOWA National Head of Programmes, Mrs Semble Olanrewaju, in her remarks, expressed excitement and promised that the devices would be put into good use to help enhance the learning capacity of the children.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the officers later took a tour of the school and specially inspected the therepy, dinning and nap rooms, among others.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Ephraims Sheyin