ABUJA, Nigeria – In a groundbreaking move aimed at transforming the lives of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria, the federal government on Wednesday unveiled the Beyond Disability Project. This landmark initiative seeks to empower at least 5,000 individuals from the country’s 35.1 million PWDs through talent discovery, skill acquisition, educational support, and mentorship programs.
The unveiling ceremony, which took place in Abuja, was led by Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities. In his address, Isa emphasized the project’s alignment with President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s vision of inclusivity and equal opportunities for all Nigerians.
“It is with great honour, pride, and fulfillment that I stand before you today to unveil the logo of the Beyond Disability Project,” Isa declared. “This initiative embodies President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to creating a society where everyone, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to thrive.”
Isa expressed deep gratitude to various stakeholders who have been pivotal in bringing the Beyond Disability Project to fruition. He singled out Mr. Steve Rodstick Ezeh, the National Coordinator of the project, for his tireless dedication and leadership. “Your unwavering passion and leadership have been instrumental in bringing us to this momentous occasion,” Isa commended.
The project has also garnered regional support, with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) adopting it during the last Ministers in charge of Disabilities Regional Convention in Nigeria. Isa acknowledged ECOWAS’s support, describing it as invaluable and a testament to the regional commitment to disability inclusivity.
A key highlight of the event was the acknowledgment of the Queen Halimat Adenike Tejuosho Foundation, founded by Queen Adenike Tejuosho, for its significant role in the project’s realization. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation also received special mention for their collaboration and support.
“To the Board of Trustees of the Beyond Disability Humanitarian Aid Foundation, your partnership has been exceptional, and we appreciate your unwavering commitment to the project’s success,” Isa stated, extending his gratitude to all involved in the initiative.
The BD-Project’s implementation team received commendation for their zeal and dedication, which have been critical in reaching this milestone. Isa highlighted that the unveiling of the logo is not merely a symbolic gesture but the beginning of a movement aimed at dismantling barriers and creating inclusive opportunities for PWDs.
“Today’s event is more than just the unveiling of a logo; it represents a movement that seeks to break down barriers and create opportunities for persons with disabilities,” Isa emphasized. “Through this project, we aim to provide talent development, skill acquisition, and mentorship programs for persons with disabilities. We are committed to creating a society that values and includes everyone.”
In his concluding remarks, Isa reiterated the project’s commitment to improving the lives of PWDs and ensuring they reach their full potential. He called for broad collaboration across sectors to support the initiative and foster an inclusive society. “We believe that everyone deserves a chance to thrive, regardless of their abilities. This project is dedicated to improving lives and empowering persons within the circle to reach their full potential,” Isa said passionately.
The Beyond Disability Project is set to be an annual initiative, continuously striving to uplift and empower more PWDs across Nigeria. With the federal government’s robust backing and collaborative efforts from national and regional partners, this initiative promises to make significant strides in enhancing the quality of life for PWDs and fostering a more inclusive Nigerian society.
For more information on the Beyond Disability Project and how to get involved, interested parties can visit the official website or contact the project coordinators through the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
As the Beyond Disability Project embarks on its mission, it heralds a new era of inclusivity and equal opportunities, setting a benchmark for disability support initiatives across the continent.
