Lokoja, Kogi State – December 3, 2024
As the world marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD), Kogi State stands out as a beacon of hope and inclusion. In a ceremony led by Hon. Yakubu Nazir Abdulhakeem, the Executive Secretary of the Kogi State Office for Disability Affairs, the state reaffirmed its commitment to fostering equality, amplifying the voices of persons with disabilities (PWDs), and paving the way for an inclusive and sustainable future.
This year’s theme, “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future,” encapsulates the pressing need to empower individuals with disabilities to step into leadership roles and actively shape the world around them.
A Call for Inclusion
During his address, Hon. Abdulhakeem highlighted the significance of IDPWD, describing it as a day not just for reflection but also for action.
“This day is a reminder of the strength and resilience of persons with disabilities in our society. It is also an opportunity for us to assess how far we’ve come in creating a more inclusive environment and to identify areas where we need to do more,” he said.
Hon. Abdulhakeem also took the opportunity to call on the Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, to take bold steps in implementing policies and initiatives that uplift the disabled community.
“Kogi State has a proud history of being a friend to persons with disabilities. Now is the time to build on this foundation and take deliberate actions to ensure that individuals with disabilities are not just seen but heard and recognized as leaders in our society,” he stated.
A Legacy of Inclusivity
Kogi State has long been recognized as a trailblazer in disability advocacy. From enacting disability-friendly policies to promoting accessibility in public spaces, the state has taken significant strides toward inclusivity. However, Hon. Abdulhakeem stressed that more needs to be done to achieve true equity.
“While we’ve made commendable progress, the journey is far from over. We need to create platforms where persons with disabilities can lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to our communities. This is not just about inclusion—it’s about empowerment,” he emphasized.
Amplifying Leadership
The focus of this year’s IDPWD celebration is on leadership—an area where persons with disabilities remain underrepresented. Hon. Abdulhakeem pointed out that despite their talents and capabilities, many individuals with disabilities face barriers that prevent them from assuming leadership roles.
“Leadership is not about physical ability; it’s about vision, determination, and the ability to inspire others. Persons with disabilities have these qualities in abundance, but they need the opportunities and support to showcase them,” he said.
He urged the government, private sector, and civil society to work together to break down these barriers.
A Direct Appeal to Governor Ododo
In his speech, Hon. Abdulhakeem made a heartfelt appeal to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to champion the cause of disability inclusion.
“With the support of His Excellency, we can amplify the voices of persons with disabilities and ensure their leadership is recognized and valued. By fostering an inclusive environment that encourages their active participation, Kogi State can become a model for other states in Nigeria,” he said.
The Executive Secretary called for the implementation of initiatives that provide education, training, and leadership development for persons with disabilities. He also emphasized the importance of creating accessible infrastructure and ensuring that PWDs are represented in decision-making processes.
A Vision for a Sustainable Future
As the event drew to a close, Hon. Abdulhakeem painted a compelling vision for the future of Kogi State—one where inclusivity and sustainability go hand in hand.
“Imagine a Kogi State where every person, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to our community. This is not a distant dream; it is a goal within our reach. Together, we can make it a reality,” he said.
He called on all stakeholders to join hands in making Kogi State a shining example of what can be achieved when inclusivity is prioritized.
Unity in Action
The celebration of IDPWD 2024 in Kogi State was not just an event but a rallying cry for unity, action, and progress. It served as a reminder that the journey to inclusivity requires collective effort and unwavering commitment.
As Kogi State continues to champion the rights and leadership of persons with disabilities, the message is clear: an inclusive and sustainable future is not just possible—it is inevitable, with the right mindset and determination.
Signed:
Hon. Yakubu Nazir Abdulhakeem
Executive Secretary, Kogi State Office for Disability Affairs
