A visually impaired politician and disability rights advocate, Abdulrahman Awal, has officially declared his intention to contest for the Federal House of Representatives seat representing Bida, Gbako, and Katcha Federal Constituency under the platform of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), promising a leadership style anchored on justice, inclusion, integrity, and service to humanity.
Awal, a survivor of retinoblastoma, a rare form of eye cancer that left him blind, made the declaration in a deeply emotional and reflective statement titled “A Declaration of Responsibility and Service.” His announcement has already begun generating conversations across political and disability advocacy circles in Niger State, with many describing it as a bold step toward inclusive representation in Nigeria’s democratic process.
In his declaration, the aspirant emphasized that public office should never be viewed as a privilege or avenue for personal enrichment, but rather as a sacred trust that must be handled with accountability and fairness.
Drawing inspiration from Islamic teachings, Awal quoted Qur’an 4:58, which states: “Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice.” He noted that leadership must be built on empathy, understanding, and a genuine commitment to the welfare of the people.
The aspirant recounted how surviving retinoblastoma at an early age shaped his resilience and worldview, explaining that his life experiences taught him the value of perseverance, compassion, and service.
According to him, his educational journey, which combined both formal and Islamic learning, as well as his travels across 33 states in Nigeria, exposed him to the realities facing ordinary citizens and strengthened his desire to contribute meaningfully to national development.
“These journeys were not for comfort or prestige,” he stated. “They were classrooms that taught me that leadership must be rooted in understanding people as they are, not as we assume them to be.”
Awal revealed that his leadership journey began during his student days at the Niger State College of Education, where he emerged as a vocal advocate for student welfare and social justice.
He said leadership was never a quest for popularity, but a response to responsibility and the need to stand for those whose voices are often ignored.
The House of Representatives hopeful also highlighted his active involvement in disability advocacy within Niger State, where he worked with others to push conversations around inclusion, equal opportunities, and political participation for persons with disabilities.
He explained that one of his major efforts was mobilizing persons with disabilities to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and actively participate in elections, insisting that true representation can only happen when marginalized groups engage fully in democratic processes.
Awal stressed that society thrives when every segment is given a voice, adding that physical condition, social status, or economic background should never determine a person’s worth or leadership potential.
Quoting Qur’an 49:13, he stated: “The most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you,” while emphasizing that character and accountability remain the true measures of leadership.
Beyond advocacy, Awal described himself as a counseling psychologist, writer, and entrepreneur who has dedicated years to mentoring and inspiring young people through reflective writings focused on emotional healing, social responsibility, and hope.
He disclosed that many Nigerians who encountered his writings shared testimonies about renewed purpose and direction in life, further reinforcing his belief that meaningful societal transformation begins with thoughtful engagement and moral leadership.
The aspirant also spoke extensively about integrity, warning against corruption and abuse of power in public office.
“I have lived by the principle that whatever is meant for me will reach me, and one must never consume what belongs to others,” he declared, while assuring constituents that accountability before God and society would guide his actions if elected.
Awal further noted that entrepreneurship became part of his journey at the age of 21 when he founded his first company with the aim of creating opportunities and contributing to national conversations affecting ordinary Nigerians.
According to him, entrepreneurship taught him discipline, advocacy gave him courage, while community engagement instilled patience and understanding.
He credited his parents for raising him with the values of patriotism, humility, and service to humanity, insisting that he harbors no bitterness despite the challenges he has faced as a person with disability in Nigeria.
Declaring his ambition to represent Bida, Gbako, and Katcha at the National Assembly, Awal maintained that his aspiration is not driven by personal ambition or political fame, but by a lifelong commitment to justice, inclusion, and responsible governance.
He pledged to champion policies that promote equality, youth empowerment, education, accessibility, and opportunities for marginalized communities if given the mandate by the people.
“This aspiration is not born out of personal ambition. It is a continuation of a lifelong commitment to justice, inclusion, and responsible governance,” he said.
Political observers believe Awal’s declaration signals a growing demand for greater participation of persons with disabilities in Nigeria’s political landscape, especially at a time when conversations around inclusive governance and representation continue to gain momentum across the country.
His entrance into the race is also being viewed as a powerful symbol of resilience and possibility, particularly for young Nigerians and persons with disabilities who have long struggled with barriers to political participation and leadership opportunities.
As preparations for the next electoral cycle gradually intensify, many stakeholders are expected to watch closely how Awal’s message of inclusion, service, and accountability resonates with voters across Bida, Gbako, and Katcha Federal Constituency of Niger State.
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