Katsina State is on the brink of a historic shift for its community of persons with disabilities, as Governor Dikko Umar Radda is expected to approve the establishment of the Disabled Commission in the state. This was announced by Usman Hudu, the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Disabled Matters, who expressed optimism and commitment to making this long-anticipated commission a reality.
In an interview with journalists in Katsina, Hudu shared updates on the commission’s progress, emphasizing the significance of the upcoming decision. “The bill for the establishment of the Disabled Commission has been passed by the Katsina State House of Assembly and is now before our amiable Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda. I am optimistic he will soon assent to it and direct for the commission’s establishment, which we expect before the end of this year,” Hudu stated confidently.
The commission, once established, is expected to be a game-changer for persons with disabilities in Katsina State. Hudu explained that it would introduce structured budgetary provisions specifically to address the needs and welfare of persons with disabilities, something that his office has previously managed without an official budget or overhead. “Currently, my office does not have an official budget. But out of his wisdom, the Governor has been providing support for our day-to-day activities. The establishment of this commission will secure long-term funding and ensure we can address the needs of the disabled community comprehensively,” Hudu added.
One of the primary functions of the proposed commission will be to develop sustainable programs for persons with disabilities, including reviving the state’s rehabilitation centers. These centers, once rehabilitated, will serve as hubs for skills acquisition, offering persons with disabilities opportunities for self-reliance and economic empowerment. “The Governor has directed that we revisit the abandoned rehabilitation centers for persons with disabilities across the state. Once rehabilitated and upgraded, these centers will offer skills training and vocational programs, helping individuals move towards independence and away from street begging,” he explained.
The SSA revealed that his team is currently conducting a thorough assessment of all such centers in the state, noting that a comprehensive census of all persons with special needs is underway to facilitate targeted support. Forms have been distributed across local government areas to capture accurate data, which will assist the state in planning and implementing tailored services. “We are working round the state to assess the condition of these centers and have also taken a census of all persons with special needs across Katsina. This data will enable us to understand and serve their needs better,” he explained.
Hudu also took the opportunity to call upon all persons with disabilities in Katsina to participate in the census exercise, highlighting its importance in ensuring they receive the benefits they deserve. “The Governor is committed to uplifting the lives of persons with special needs, but we need everyone’s cooperation to make this successful. By participating in the census, persons with disabilities are helping us build a better future, one where they can live productive and dignified lives,” Hudu urged.
This commitment from the Katsina State government marks a progressive step toward inclusivity and empowerment for the disability community, aligning with broader efforts to create a more equitable society in Nigeria.
For many families, the news of the Disabled Commission’s impending establishment brings hope for a future where persons with disabilities have equal opportunities and support to thrive. The proposed commission represents not just a new administrative body but a fundamental shift toward recognition, inclusion, and practical support for some of the state’s most vulnerable residents.
With this upcoming commission, Katsina State aims to set a precedent, becoming a model for other states seeking to improve the lives of persons with disabilities. As the final steps toward approval are awaited, the people of Katsina look forward to a more inclusive era, where every citizen, regardless of ability, is valued and supported.
