The Federal Government has reaffirmed its determination in training people living with disabilities in different skills aimed at making them self-reliant and for improved livelihood.
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs Disaster Management and Social Development, Hajiya Sadiya Umar Farouq, represented by the Director Special Needs Mrs. Nkechi Onwukwe, “said the gathering is to provide and explore greater possibilities in the quest to combat challenges faced by Persons with Disabilities for a sustainable National Development”.
Speaking further during the opening ceremony of a three-day capacity building workshop on income-generating activities for people living with disabilities from the Northwest Geopolitical zone held in Kano.The Minister said that, “with the current trend in world economies it is expected that poverty level of most vulnerable may likely increase and therefore the Ministry has taken the situation not just as unexpected challenge, but as a veritable opportunity to deepen the foundations of the Federal Government’s Humanitarian intervention in order build poverty alleviation systems that are truly responsive and resilient “.
The Minister disclosed that a grant of One hundred thousand naira will be given to each PWD participant.
The Permanent Secretary Dr. Nasir Sani Gwarzo, represented by the Assistant Director, Special Needs Department, Mallam Garuba Magaji said the workshop became necessary considering that it is only when PWDs are empowered, involved and included that they can be prepared to take advantage of opportunities and become more available to embrace their civic responsibilities.
He added that the workshop is aimed at addressing issues of inclusiveness among PWDs especially regarding income generation activities, equipping PWDS with necessary skills for poverty reduction to ensure a sustainable livelihood, developing their entrepreneurial competencies to favourably compete in the business environment “.
In her remarks, the Kano state Commissioner for Women Affairs Dr. Zahra’u Mohammad applauded the Federal Government’s foresight in organizing the capacity-building training.
She noted that the training would play a vital role in addressing the menace of street begging and other related issues.
She added that the State Government has commenced the processes of supporting Persons with Disabilities in the area of economic empowerment, education, health and provision of polices and laws that will guarantee their protection in the State.
Grace Osuji
Principal Information Officer
For: DD (Information)
