PWDs Urge Politicians to Extend Kindness to Vulnerable Members, Orphans
From Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
A coalition representing 37 million Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria has called on politicians, philanthropists, and wealthy individuals to extend their kindness and support to the vulnerable members of society, including orphans and those struggling with poverty.
The appeal was made by Comrade Abdullahi Isma’il Ibrahim, the Disabled Leader and APC National Youth Ambassador for the Northeast Zone, in a press statement issued in Kaduna on Saturday.
He emphasized the urgent need for assistance amid the current economic challenges facing many Nigerians, particularly those with disabilities.
Abdullahi shared a personal encounter with a young man with a disability and his family, who were struggling with hunger, to illustrate the daily hardships faced by the disability community and other average Nigerians.
He stressed that immediate and unique interventions are necessary to alleviate these struggles.
In his statement, Abdullahi praised humanitarian figures like the CEO of QAT Foundation, Dr. Halimat Adenike Tejuosho, and Her Excellency, Sen. Remi Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for their selfless work and generosity.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its efforts to combat poverty and inequality through various initiatives.
Abdullahi advocated for the appointment of a dedicated Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, recommending Dr. Halimat Adenike Tejuosho for the role due to her proven track record in humanitarian services.
“We are appealing for urgent action to address the economic hardships confronting our members and other vulnerable individuals in society,”
“We recognize that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, through his Renewed Hope Agenda, is making every effort to find lasting solutions to these challenges. However, we urge him to prioritize competence by appointing individuals with proven records of prioritizing the welfare of citizens” Abdullahi said.
He continued, “Without a doubt, individuals like the CEO of QAT Foundation, Hajiya Halimat Tejuosho Adenike, have significantly contributed to national development. We believe that if she is given the opportunity to serve as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, she will effectively address Nigeria’s challenges related to poverty, inequality, and disability.”
Abdullahi concluded by urging leaders and individuals to prioritize kindness, empathy, and inclusive leadership to address these critical issues and create a better future for all Nigerians.