By Danladi Bako
December 26, 2024
The Advocacy for Disability Act Cluster (ADAC), a coalition of five influential Civil Society Organisations, has lauded the bold and visionary leadership of Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Yahaya for his recent groundbreaking move to sign the Disability Protection Law into effect. This law establishes the Gombe State Disability Commission and promises to transform the lives of over half a million Persons with Disabilities in the state.
The ADAC cluster, which includes El-New Hope Foundation (Abia State), Global Youth Empowerment and Vulnerable Initiative (Adamawa State), Lawanti Development Community Foundation (Gombe State), Centre for Peace Education and Community Development (Taraba State), and the Inclusive Friends Association (Abuja), hailed the Governor’s decision as a testament to his commitment to the inclusivity and welfare of all citizens, especially those living with disabilities.
In a press statement signed by Grace Jerry, the Executive Director of the Inclusive Friends Association and ADAC Cluster Anchor, the coalition commended Governor Yahaya for his swift action in signing the law on Monday, December 23, 2024. The law not only provides essential protection for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) but also marks a historical moment with the establishment of the Disability Commission in the same ceremony. This unprecedented move positions Gombe as a trailblazer in disability rights, setting a new standard for other states to follow.
A New Dawn for Persons with Disabilities in Gombe State
Jerry emphasized that the signing of the Disability Protection Law and the immediate formation of the Commission on the same day were key steps in ensuring the law’s effective implementation. She highlighted how this action reflects a forward-thinking governance system that has set Gombe apart from many others, noting that such decisive action is rare even at the national level.
“The signing and constituting of the Commission’s leadership reflect a ‘no-delay syndrome’ that has often been absent in other states,” Jerry remarked. “This swift action brings great joy to the over half a million Persons with Disabilities in Gombe State, marking the beginning of a new era. The law will undoubtedly bring about positive changes in various sectors, including education, healthcare, transport, political participation, and infrastructure, ensuring that Persons with Disabilities are no longer marginalized.”
The Disability Protection Law, now a cornerstone of the state’s inclusive development agenda, is set to create accessible systems and structures, hold the government accountable, and improve the lives of the PWD community in Gombe State.
A Well-Deserved Appointment: Dr. Ishiyaku Adamu Appointed Executive Secretary
In a further display of commitment to disability inclusion, ADAC also praised the appointment of Dr. Ishiyaku Adamu as the Executive Secretary of the Gombe State Disability Commission. Jerry described the appointment as “well-deserved,” noting that Dr. Adamu’s leadership would be pivotal in implementing the law and driving forward the Commission’s goals.
“The ADAC is delighted to congratulate Dr. Ishiyaku Adamu on his appointment as the head of the Gombe State Disability Commission,” Jerry said. “This appointment, alongside the establishment of the Commission, is a monumental achievement that will resonate deeply with the disability community in the state. The support from the Joint Association of Persons with Disabilities, the Gombe State Network of Civil Society, and local media has been invaluable in making this dream a reality.”
A Unified Effort from the Gombe State House of Assembly
The ADAC also took the opportunity to commend the Gombe State House of Assembly for its role in the successful passage of the Disability Protection Bill. According to Jerry, the House, under the leadership of Speaker Rt. Hon. Abubakar Muhammad Luggerewo, remained steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the bill was prioritized and passed.
“ADAC commends the efforts of the Gombe State House of Assembly, particularly Speaker Luggerewo, who has consistently lived up to the integrity of his commitments,” Jerry said. “The Assembly’s unwavering support for the disability bill, from the harnessing legislative support event in Yola to the public hearing in Bauchi, has been crucial in ensuring this landmark legislation was passed.”
The law’s success is also attributed to the tireless work of the House Committee on Education, led by Hon. Shuaibu Adamu, and the Committee on Women Affairs and Special Duties. The collaboration among lawmakers, civil society, and disability advocates was instrumental in achieving this victory for Persons with Disabilities in Gombe State.
A Call for Continued Collaboration and Unity
Looking forward, ADAC emphasized the importance of unity among all disability-related groups in Gombe State to ensure the law’s provisions are fully realized. The cluster called on various disability clusters and stakeholders to work together in harmony rather than operating in silos, urging continued support from the media to raise awareness about the new law.
“ADAC calls on all disability clusters in Gombe State to collaborate and work in unison,” Jerry said. “Collective efforts will ensure the successful implementation of the law and the establishment of a truly inclusive Gombe State.”
Jerry also urged the state government to prioritize inclusive budgeting, ensuring that the Disability Commission is adequately funded to carry out its mandate effectively.
A Visionary Leadership for an Inclusive Future
The ADAC cluster concluded its statement by expressing pride in being part of this monumental achievement for Gombe State. The establishment of the Disability Commission and the signing of the Disability Protection Law represent a significant milestone in the journey toward inclusivity and equal opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their physical abilities.
“The journey toward an inclusive Gombe State has been an inspiring one,” Jerry stated. “The visionary and dynamic leadership from both the Executive and Legislative arms of government has made this achievement possible. ADAC is proud to be part of this process and remains committed to supporting and collaborating with the Gombe State Disability Commission as we work toward a more inclusive future.”
With these groundbreaking developments, Gombe State is set to become a model for inclusivity in Nigeria, offering hope and empowerment to Persons with Disabilities and ensuring their rightful place in society. The commitment to disability rights is no longer a distant dream but a reality, thanks to the proactive leadership of Governor Muhammadu Yahaya and the collective efforts of the people of Gombe State.
