Hajiya Sadiya Umar-Farouk, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, has said that the ministry would soon inaugurate Therapeutic Sports Club and Civil Society Organisation (CSO) for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs).
Umar-Farouk made the disclosure at a news conference to commemorate 2020 International Day of PWDs on Tuesday in Abuja.
The theme of the 2020 International Day of PWDs anniversary is “Building Back better: Toward a Disability- Inclusive, Accessible and Sustainable Post COVID-19 World”.
According to her, this theme is focused on ensuring that PWDs are equipped and empowered for inclusive, accessible and sustainable development as is envisaged in the COVID-19 world.
“This year’s observance of the International Day of PWDs featured Muslim Prayers at the Mosque at Area 11 on Nov. 27 and Christian Prayers at a Church in Gwarimpa, Abuja on Nov. 29.
“The Grand Finale on Thursday Dec.3 will be the symbolic presentation of Assistive Devices and Empowerment Tools to PWDs.
“Most importantly, the Therapeutic Sports Club for PWDs and coalition of civil society organisations for women and girls with disabilities will also be launched,” she said.
The minister said that the ministry had distributed palliatives to PWDs in Karmajiji, Yangoji and other communities within the Federal Capital Territory to cushion the effects of COVID-19 pandemic.
She said that the ministry would continue to reach out to PWDs with its interventions.
“However, if you recalled at the event commemorating the 2019 International Day for PWDs, I stated my commitment to ensuring the take-off of the National Commission for PWDs.
“Today, I am gratified to say that on the Aug.17, President Muhammadu Buhari approved the appointment of the Board and Executive Secretary of the Commission signifying the take-off of the commission.
“The commission is responsible for the Education, Health, Economic and Civil rights of PWDs.
“This will help in promoting the participation of PWDs in all aspects of life and their aspiring to leadership and decision-making positions in the country,” she said.
According to her, the Federal Government is committed to ensuring that PWDs have access to education, employment, social protection, health and other essential services.
Umar-Farouk enjoined the public to be sensitive to the needs of PWDs, protect their rights and support them by creating an enabling environment for them to realise their potential.
“These will enable them live fulfilled lives and make meaningful contributions to societal growth and development,” she said.
ROYAL NEWS reports that every Dec.3 is the International Day of PWDs, following the UN General Assembly Resolution 47/3 of 1992.
The day is intended to prompt member states and other disability stakeholders to focus on issues relating to total inclusion of PWDs in both national and international circles, as well as celebrating them.
