In a remarkable show of solidarity and commitment to disability inclusion, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), on Wednesday, received a delegation from Rotary International under the auspices of the National PolioPlus Committee (NNPPC), ahead of the global commemoration of World Polio Day 2025, which comes up on October 24.
The visit, led by Mrs. Grace Sadiku, popularly known as Mama Polio, who serves as the Kaduna State Polio Field Coordinator and a representative of the Office of the National PolioPlus Chair, was aimed at strengthening partnership with the Commission and other relevant stakeholders in sustaining Nigeria’s polio-free status while promoting the welfare and inclusion of polio survivors across the country.
Rotary’s Continued Commitment to a Polio-Free World
In her remarks, Mrs. Sadiku lauded the leadership of the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, describing him as a symbol of hope and resilience for millions of Nigerians who have survived polio.
She praised Gufwan’s lifelong commitment to disability advocacy and empowerment, noting that his story as a polio survivor who rose to national leadership continues to inspire both persons with disabilities and the wider society.
“Rotary International remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that polio is completely eradicated from the world and that those who have survived the disease live dignified, empowered, and inclusive lives,” Mrs. Sadiku emphasized.
She further extended a formal invitation to the NCPWD to participate in the national celebration of World Polio Day 2025, describing it as an important platform to highlight progress, share success stories, and renew global resolve toward total eradication of the disease.
Gufwan: ‘There is Ability in Disability’
Responding warmly to the Rotary delegation, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, who also serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Wheelchairs for Nigeria, expressed appreciation to Rotary International for its decades-long humanitarian service and transformative impact in the lives of persons affected by polio.
He recalled Rotary’s immense contribution to global health through its “End Polio Now” campaign, describing the organization as a true partner in humanity and a strong ally in the disability inclusion movement.
“If the government, organizations, and society at large continue to provide strong support systems, polio survivors will not only become self-reliant but will also contribute meaningfully to national development,” Gufwan stated.
He also invoked the legacy of Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States, who was himself a polio survivor yet led his nation with unmatched courage, intellect, and foresight. According to Gufwan, Roosevelt’s life is a shining example that “disability does not define one’s destiny — there is ability in disability.”
NCPWD and Rotary: Building Bridges for Inclusion
Gufwan reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to deepening collaboration with Rotary International and other stakeholders to advance the empowerment and inclusion of polio survivors.
He stressed that the Commission is determined to ensure that every person with a disability — especially those affected by polio — has access to education, livelihood, healthcare, and equal opportunities.
“As a survivor of polio myself, I understand the challenges, but I also understand the strength that comes with overcoming them. Together with partners like Rotary, we can ensure that no one is left behind,” he said.
World Polio Day 2025: A National Call to Action
The forthcoming World Polio Day 2025 will be marked with high-level engagements, public enlightenment campaigns, medical outreaches, and community sensitization activities across Nigeria. The event will not only highlight the country’s success story in eliminating polio but will also serve as a call to action to sustain progress and empower survivors through inclusive policies and programs.
With Nigeria maintaining its polio-free certification, the focus has now shifted to post-eradication sustainability — ensuring that survivors are empowered and that no child ever experiences the scourge of polio again.
As the NCPWD continues to lead efforts in promoting disability rights and inclusion, its partnership with Rotary International stands as a beacon of hope and a powerful reminder that true victory over polio goes beyond eradication — it is about giving survivors the chance to live fully, contribute to society, and thrive with dignity.
