Traditional ruler commends Commission, urges beneficiaries to maximise intervention
By Abubakar Rabilu Gombe
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has provided assistive devices to persons with disabilities in Kaltungo Chiefdom, Gombe State, in an intervention aimed at improving mobility, independence and quality of life.
The items, which included mobility canes, elbow crutches, axillary crutches and wheelchairs, were distributed to persons with disabilities in the community.
The intervention was commended by the Mai Kaltungo and Deputy Chairman of the Gombe State Council of Emirs and Chiefs, HRH Engr. Saleh Muhammad Umar, OON, who described the gesture as a meaningful demonstration of government support for persons with disabilities.
The traditional ruler spoke while witnessing the presentation of the assistive devices to beneficiaries in Kaltungo.
NCPWD Calls for Registration
The devices were presented by the Director of Finance and Accounts of the NCPWD, Hajiya Fatsuma Zainab Suleiman, popularly known as Mai Dakin Yamman Kaltungo, on behalf of the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Chief Ayuba Burki Gufwan.
Addressing the beneficiaries, Hajiya Fatsuma conveyed the Executive Secretary’s commitment to sustaining support for persons with disabilities in Kaltungo Chiefdom, Gombe State and other parts of Nigeria.
She also urged persons with disabilities who had not yet registered with the Commission to do so.
According to her, registration is critical to enabling the Commission to develop an accurate database containing information about persons with disabilities, including their categories and specific needs.
She explained that reliable data would support effective planning, resource allocation and targeted interventions for persons with disabilities.
‘Use the Devices Properly’
Responding to the intervention, the Mai Kaltungo expressed appreciation to the NCPWD leadership for supporting persons with disabilities in the chiefdom.
He described the assistive devices as a significant intervention capable of enhancing the mobility, independence and overall quality of life of the beneficiaries.
The traditional ruler urged the beneficiaries to make proper and judicious use of the items, while assuring them of the continued support of the traditional institution.
He equally encouraged other persons with disabilities in the community who were yet to register with the NCPWD to do so, stressing that registration could facilitate access to future government interventions and other support services.
Call for Stronger Community Collaboration
The monarch further emphasised the importance of collaboration between government institutions, traditional authorities and local communities in addressing the needs of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.
He said the intervention demonstrated what could be achieved when relevant institutions and community leadership work together to promote inclusion and improve the lives of persons with disabilities.
Beyond the distribution of wheelchairs, crutches and mobility canes, the Kaltungo intervention has once again highlighted the importance of assistive technology, reliable disability data and sustained government support in advancing the rights, independence and participation of persons with disabilities.
For beneficiaries, the devices represent more than mobility aids—they offer an opportunity for greater independence, participation and dignity in everyday life.
