In a pivotal moment for the disability community in Nigeria, Chief Ayuba Burki Gufwan has officially taken the reins as the new Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD). His appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marks the beginning of a new chapter for the commission, as it continues its mission to advocate for the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities across the nation.
Chief Ayuba Burki Gufwan, a name synonymous with the advocacy and empowerment of persons with disabilities, especially polio survivors, steps into this role with a wealth of experience and a clear vision. His journey, rooted in decades of tireless work within the disability rights movement, has equipped him with the knowledge and passion needed to steer the commission towards achieving its goals.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Empowerment
Chief Ayuba Burki is no stranger to the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in Nigeria. Himself a survivor of polio, he has dedicated his life to advocating for those who, like him, have had to overcome the barriers imposed by physical disabilities. His work has spanned rehabilitation efforts, the provision of mobility aids, and the establishment of vocational training programs aimed at empowering individuals to live independent and fulfilling lives.
As he assumes the position of Executive Secretary, Chief Ayuba Burki has expressed his determination to build upon the foundation laid by his predecessor, Dr. James Lalu. Under Dr. Lalu’s leadership, the commission made significant strides in raising awareness and advocating for the implementation of the National Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, passed in 2018. However, the road ahead remains challenging, and Chief Ayuba Burki is fully aware of the work that lies ahead.
A Commitment to the National Discrimination Act
One of the key pillars of Chief Ayuba Burki’s agenda is the aggressive implementation of the National Discrimination and Prohibition Act. This legislation, which was a monumental victory for the disability community, prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities and mandates equal access to opportunities in all sectors. Despite its passage, the Act has seen inconsistent enforcement, leaving many PWDs still vulnerable to discrimination and exclusion.
Chief Ayuba Burki has made it clear that this will be a top priority during his tenure. “The National Discrimination Act is not just a piece of legislation; it is a lifeline for millions of Nigerians who have been marginalized for far too long,” he said during his takeover ceremony. “I am committed to ensuring that this Act is not just a document but a living, breathing part of our national consciousness. It will be enforced, and violators will be held accountable.”
Empowering Persons with Disabilities
Beyond legislative enforcement, Chief Ayuba Burki’s vision for the NCPWD includes a strong focus on empowerment. He recognizes that while laws are essential, true inclusion and equity for persons with disabilities can only be achieved through tangible support and opportunities. To this end, he has vowed to prioritize skills development and vocational training as key components of the commission’s strategy.
“The future of our nation depends on the contributions of all its citizens, and persons with disabilities are no exception,” Chief Ayuba Burki stated. “My administration will focus on skilling and empowering PWDs so that they can be self-reliant and contribute to the building of our nation. We will create programs that are tailored to the specific needs and abilities of our community, ensuring that no one is left behind.”
Driving the Renewed Hope Agenda
Chief Ayuba Burki’s appointment comes at a time when President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda is gaining momentum across the country. This agenda, which emphasizes inclusivity, economic empowerment, and social justice, aligns closely with the goals of the NCPWD. Chief Ayuba Burki has pledged to be a driving force in ensuring that the renewed hope envisioned by the President is fully realized for persons with disabilities.
“I am committed to driving home the renewed hope agenda for persons with disabilities, as envisioned by President Tinubu,” Chief Ayuba Burki affirmed. “This is not just about fulfilling a mandate; it is about changing lives. I will work tirelessly to ensure that persons with disabilities have access to better opportunities and are empowered to reach their full potential.”
A Vision for the Future
Under Chief Ayuba Burki’s leadership, the NCPWD is poised to make significant strides in advancing the cause of persons with disabilities in Nigeria. His approach is holistic, focusing not only on the enforcement of rights but also on the creation of opportunities that will allow PWDs to thrive. This vision is expected to inspire a new era of advocacy and action within the commission, as it seeks to address the many challenges that remain.
The NCPWD’s role in promoting the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities cannot be overstated. As the primary government body responsible for this mission, the commission’s success or failure has profound implications for the lives of millions of Nigerians. With Chief Ayuba Burki at the helm, there is renewed optimism that the commission will rise to the occasion and deliver on its mandate.
Clarifying Misconceptions
In recent days, there has been speculation about a potential swearing-in ceremony for Chief Ayuba Burki. However, it has been confirmed that he has already assumed office and has begun his work as the Executive Secretary. The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities has moved swiftly to clarify any misconceptions, stating unequivocally that there will be no swearing-in ceremony tomorrow, Friday, 16th August 2024, as had been rumored. This clarification is intended to ensure that the public is accurately informed about the transition of leadership within the commission.
Conclusion
Chief Ayuba Burki Gufwan’s appointment as the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities marks a significant moment in the ongoing struggle for disability rights in Nigeria. His leadership brings with it a wealth of experience, a deep personal connection to the issues at hand, and a clear vision for the future. As he embarks on this new journey, there is a strong sense of hope and anticipation within the disability community that real, meaningful change is on the horizon.
With the backing of the federal government and the support of the broader disability rights movement, Chief Ayuba Burki is well-positioned to lead the NCPWD into a new era of progress and empowerment. The challenges are great, but so too is the potential for transformation. As Nigeria continues to work towards a more inclusive society, the work of the NCPWD under Chief Ayuba Burki’s leadership will be crucial in ensuring that no one is left behind.
