Beyond Disability Project Takes Giant Leap: 36,551 Jobs for Persons with Disabilities in Sight
Abuja, Nigeria – September 27, 2024
In a landmark move aimed at revolutionizing the employment landscape for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) across Nigeria, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, on Friday, presented appointment letters and terms of reference to the newly appointed State Coordinators of the Beyond Disability Project (BD-Project). The event, which took place at a Documentation and Orientation Meeting in Abuja, represents a pivotal step toward fulfilling the BD-Project’s ambitious target of creating 36,551 job opportunities for PWDs from the national level down to the local government and ward levels.
The BD-Project, which was officially launched by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on July 22, 2024, seeks to empower over 5,000 PWDs through talent and skill development by providing training, mentorship, and resources that will enable them to unlock their unique potential. The initiative is expected to create over 36,551 jobs nationwide, marking one of the largest employment projects tailored specifically for persons with disabilities in Nigeria’s history.
A Strategic Rollout Across Nigeria
The appointment of the state coordinators marks the beginning of the implementation phase of the BD-Project, with Enugu, Ebonyi, Delta, and Jigawa States leading the pilot phase of the project. These coordinators, who were nominated by their respective state governors, have been tasked with establishing grassroots structures from the local government areas to the ward levels. This strategy is designed to ensure that the BD-Project reaches every corner of the country, thereby maximizing its impact on the lives of PWDs.
Addressing the newly appointed coordinators, Hon. Abba Isa emphasized that their role is more than just an administrative position; it represents a call to service, leadership, and transformation. “Your appointment as State Coordinators is not just a position; it is a call to service, leadership, and transformation,” he declared passionately, setting the tone for the meeting.
The Responsibilities Ahead
The Senior Special Assistant highlighted two primary objectives of the meeting: documentation of the appointed coordinators and an in-depth orientation to provide a clear roadmap for the tasks ahead. Hon. Abba Isa laid out the expectations, stating, “The coordinators are expected to oversee talent and skill development initiatives for PWDs in their states, ensuring the successful execution of programs designed to harness and nurture the potential of PWDs.”
He underscored the importance of maintaining regular communication with the national team to ensure that the project remains aligned with its overarching goals. “It is essential that you remain in close contact with both the National Coordinator and the Senior Special Assistant’s office to ensure alignment with our national objectives. We will support you in every way possible, but we also expect you to be proactive, innovative, and adaptive to the unique challenges that may arise in your states,” Hon. Abba Isa stressed.
A Clear Blueprint for Job Creation
The National Coordinator of the Beyond Disability Project, Hon. Rodstick Steven, presented a detailed breakdown of how the BD-Project aims to achieve its goal of creating 36,551 jobs for PWDs. He highlighted the various employment opportunities that will be generated at different levels of the project’s implementation:
- National Structure: Over 20 job opportunities will be created at the national level.
- Zonal Coordinators: Six zonal coordinators and two executives per zone will generate a total of 18 job opportunities for PWDs.
- State Level: With 37 state coordinators and five executives per state, 222 job opportunities will be created for PWDs.
- Local Government Level: The project will employ 774 Local Government Area (LGA) coordinators and 3,870 executives, generating 4,644 jobs.
- Ward Level: A total of 8,809 ward coordinators, along with two executives per ward, will create 26,427 employment opportunities for PWDs.
- Talent Development: Additionally, 5,000 talented PWDs will be empowered with various job opportunities.
Grand Total: A remarkable 36,551 jobs are expected to be created through the comprehensive implementation of the BD-Project.
Hon. Rodstick Steven emphasized that this project is not just about job creation; it’s about building a sustainable framework that will provide PWDs with access to opportunities and resources that have often been out of reach. “Our goal is to establish structures at the grassroots level that will ensure the BD-Project reaches every PWD in their respective states,” he stated, underscoring the crucial task ahead for the coordinators.
A Moment of Goodwill and Encouragement
The event witnessed an outpouring of goodwill messages from various state coordinators who expressed optimism about the potential impact of the BD-Project in their respective states. Mr. Omor Obruche, the Delta State Coordinator, praised Hon. Abba Isa’s visionary leadership, describing the BD-Project as a game-changer that would create jobs and reduce poverty among PWDs in Delta State. “This project will not only create jobs but also restore the dignity and self-worth of PWDs in our communities,” he said.
Similarly, Chief Michael Ofoke from Ebonyi State lauded the efforts of the office of the SSA, emphasizing that the BD-Project is a testament to the government’s commitment to inclusivity. “The achievements of the SSA’s office have been remarkable, and I believe this project will significantly uplift PWDs in Ebonyi State,” he remarked.
Mr. Umar Faruk, the Jigawa State Coordinator, described the BD-Project as a clear reflection of President Tinubu’s dedication to improving the welfare of PWDs, while Miss Chizoba Lucy Edeh from Enugu expressed her gratitude for the initiative. “I am honored to be a part of this transformative project, and I pledge to lead the implementation successfully in Enugu State,” she affirmed.
The Road Ahead: Building a Legacy of Inclusivity
In his closing remarks, Barr. Yusuf Iyodo, Chief of Staff to the SSA, congratulated the coordinators on their appointments and encouraged them to view their roles as an opportunity to make a lasting impact. “This is your chance to be agents of change in your states. The SSA’s office will be with you every step of the way, providing guidance and support,” he assured.
As the BD-Project gains momentum, it promises to transform the lives of PWDs across Nigeria by providing them with meaningful employment opportunities, breaking down barriers, and creating a more inclusive society. The initiative is not just about numbers; it is about changing perceptions, challenging stereotypes, and ensuring that PWDs are recognized as valuable contributors to the nation’s growth and development.
With the state coordinators now equipped with their appointment letters and terms of reference, the journey to creating 36,551 jobs for PWDs has officially begun. The BD-Project stands as a beacon of hope and a symbol of what is possible when leadership, vision, and a genuine commitment to inclusivity come together.
As the nation watches this ambitious initiative unfold, one thing is clear: the Beyond Disability Project is poised to leave an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history, championing a future where every citizen, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
