Ahead of the 2020 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWDs) on Thursday, December 3, with the theme “Building Back better: Toward a Disability- Inclusive, Accessible and Sustainable Post COVID-19 World”, the Federal government has put plans in place to launch a therapeutic sports club and civil society organisation (CSO) for people with disabilities (PWDs).
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Hajiya Sadiya Umar Farouq, made this known during a press briefing Tuesday in Abuja.
Hajiya Faruoq said the Ministry distributed palliatives to PWDs in Karmajiji, Yangoji and other PWDs communities within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to cushion the effects of COVID-19 pandemic, adding that the Ministry will continue to reach out to PWDs with its interventions.
She said: “This theme is focused on ensuring that Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) are equipped and empowered for inclusive, accessible and sustainable development as is envisaged in the COVID-19 world. This years 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 respectively.
“The Grand Finale on Thursday December 3, where symbolic presentation of Assistive Devices and Economic Empowerment Tools to PWDs will be made. Most importantly, the Therapeutic Sports Club for PWDs and coalition of civil society organisations for women and girls with disabilities will also be launched.
“If you recall, at the event commemorating the 2019 International Day for PWDs, I stated my commitment to ensuring the takeoff of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities. Today, I am gratified to say that on the 17th of August, 2020, President Muhammadu Buhari approved the appointment of the Board and Executive Secretary of the Commission signifying the takeoff 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. I want to assure you that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring that PWDs have access to education, employment, social protection, health and other essential services.
“I urge us all to be sensitive to the needs of PWDs and the protection of their rights by supporting the provision of an enabling environment to promote the realisation of their potentials. These will enable them live fulfilled lives and make meaningful contributions to societal growth and development.”
