STATE CHAPTER OF PERSONS LIVING WITH DISABILITIES (PLWDS) PAY ADVOCACY VISIT TO KOGI STATE PHCDA

The Kogi State Chapter of Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWDs) paid an advocacy visit to the Executive Director KGSPHCDA – Dr Abubakar Yakubu on Friday 7^th August, 2020.

The State Chairman of the group – Mr Ibrahim Daniel Arome appreciated the ED for making time to meet with them despite the short notice. In his speech, Mr Arome pointed out that ‘they may be physically challenged but mentally able’. He stated further that they have issues of inclusiveness in programmes and wish that they be considered in the plans of Government because they are part of society and can do what able bodies can do.

The National Chairman – Mr Yahaya Solomon O. requested that a minute’s silence be observed in memory of one of Agency’s Staff who was also part of them – Lt. Ojoma David. He expressed believe that the Agency will do greater exploits now more than ever before with the inclusion of PLWDs.

Speaking on behalf of the Deaf Community, Mal Kabir Omele Husseini  said he was very happy to be part of the forum. While he prayed that God will use the ED to better their lives, he urged the KGSPHCDA Boss to continue to do his best. He also added his opinion that they be included in subsequent programs.

Other speakers at the event included the NCDC Risk Communicator – Dr Yahya Disu who appreciated Kogi State for the initiative to interact and enlighten PLWDs. Dr Disu added that ‘disability is not inability’ and PLWDs should be encouraged. He reiterated the fact that COVID-19 is real in Nigeria and Kogi State cannot be entirely free owning to further facts that almost all the States in the Federation have confirmed cases. He advised everyone to take precautionary measures by constant washing of hands and use of sanitizers, use of face masks and avoidance of crowded places.

Responding, ED KGSPHCDA – Dr Abubakar Yakubu appreciated the presence of PLWDs and NCDC especially to the Agency. He applauded the move to interact with PLWDs as this was the first time since he assumed office as ED. He affirmed that primary health care seeks to address what may have made some of them the way they are today and we all must prevent further occurrence with our children by ensuring that Routine Immunization (RI) is maintained. He promised to support the group to achieve their goals as well as integrate them in forth coming programmes and activities.