Abuja, Nigeria – The Association of Lawyers with Disabilities in Nigeria (ALDIN) has warmly congratulated Chief Ayuba Burki Gufwan on his recent appointment as the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This significant appointment has been hailed as a testament to Chief Gufwan’s unwavering dedication and exceptional expertise in advocating for the rights and empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria.
In a statement released by ALDIN, National President Prince Ikem U. Uchegbulam Esq. expressed profound joy and optimism about Chief Gufwan’s new role. “We are thrilled to see one of our own, a fellow lawyer and advocate for disability rights, lead the NCPWD at this pivotal stage of its existence,” said Uchegbulam. “Chief Gufwan’s appointment is not only a personal achievement but also a significant milestone for the entire disability community in Nigeria. We are confident that under his leadership, the Commission will witness unprecedented growth and development, significantly enhancing the lives of PWDs.”
Chief Ayuba Burki Gufwan, a native of Plateau State, brings a wealth of experience and a deep-seated passion for disability advocacy to his new position. He is the founder and Executive Director of the Beautiful Gate Handicapped People Centre, based in Jos, Plateau State. The foundation is renowned for its outstanding work in providing assistive devices such as wheelchairs and crutches to thousands of persons with disabilities across Nigeria, thereby empowering them to lead more independent lives.
Chief Gufwan’s legal background, combined with his philanthropic endeavors, positions him uniquely to lead the NCPWD effectively. His extensive work in the disability sector has earned him national recognition and respect. His foundation’s efforts have not only provided physical aid but have also fostered a sense of dignity and inclusion for many individuals with disabilities.
ALDIN’s statement further highlighted the significant impact Chief Gufwan’s leadership is expected to have on the NCPWD. “His experience as the Executive Director of the Beautiful Gate Handicapped People Centre and his legal expertise make him an exceptional fit for this role,” Uchegbulam added. “We look forward to collaborating closely with Chief Gufwan to drive meaningful change and create a more inclusive society for PWDs.”
The appointment has also been praised by various disability rights groups and civil society organizations, who see it as a positive step towards achieving greater inclusivity and support for persons with disabilities in Nigeria. Many believe that Chief Gufwan’s leadership will bring about much-needed reforms and innovations in the Commission’s operations, ensuring that the rights and needs of PWDs are adequately addressed.
In addition to congratulating Chief Gufwan, ALDIN expressed sincere gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his thoughtful decision in appointing Chief Gufwan as the Executive Secretary of the NCPWD. The Association acknowledged the President’s commitment to inclusive governance and the empowerment of Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria. “We appreciate the President’s recognition of Chief Gufwan’s qualifications and experience, and we look forward to working with the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities under his able leadership,” Uchegbulam stated.
Chief Gufwan’s journey to this prestigious appointment is both inspiring and emblematic of the resilience and determination that characterize many individuals within the disability community. His personal experiences and professional achievements have equipped him with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by persons with disabilities, as well as the opportunities for creating a more inclusive and supportive environment.
As he takes on his new role, Chief Gufwan has articulated a clear vision for the NCPWD, focusing on enhancing accessibility, advocating for the rights of PWDs, and ensuring that disability issues are integrated into national development agendas. His leadership is expected to foster greater collaboration between government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international partners, thereby creating a robust framework for addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by persons with disabilities.
The disability community and stakeholders nationwide are optimistic about the future of the NCPWD under Chief Gufwan’s leadership. His appointment is seen not only as a recognition of his past contributions but also as a promise of a brighter, more inclusive future for all persons with disabilities in Nigeria. As Chief Gufwan steps into his new role, the nation watches with hope and anticipation, confident that his tenure will bring about significant positive changes and advancements in the quest for a more equitable society.
