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HomeNEWSKogi NAPWPD Hosts Colorful End-of-Year Get-Together, Highlights PWD Unity and Advocacy

Kogi NAPWPD Hosts Colorful End-of-Year Get-Together, Highlights PWD Unity and Advocacy

By Ishaq Dan-Imam, Lokoja

The Kogi State Chapter of the National Association of Persons with Physical Disabilities (NAPWPD) lit up the State Rehabilitation Centre in Lokoja on Saturday with a heartwarming and colorful end-of-year get-together. The event brought together a vibrant community of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) from across the state to share a memorable evening filled with love, laughter, and camaraderie.

The occasion, which doubled as a family dinner for PWDs, was entirely self-funded by members of the association, showcasing their resilience and resourcefulness. A highlight of the evening was the culinary prowess displayed by some of the association’s best female cooks, whose sumptuous dishes captivated the guests. From deliciously spiced chicken to a pile of crispy fries, the meals were served with flair and devoured with enthusiasm by the excited members and guests in attendance.

Accompanied by melodious musical interludes, the atmosphere was electric as members, clad in colorful attire, celebrated their unity while reflecting on the past year. The event also served as a moment of gratitude to God for sustaining their lives amid the countless challenges faced by PWDs in the state.

In his inspiring and heartfelt speech, the Kogi State Chairman of NAPWPD, Comrade Destiny Hassan Sule, did not shy away from highlighting the harsh realities faced by PWDs in the state. He lamented the persistent struggles of poverty, unemployment, illiteracy, food inflation, homelessness, and lack of mobility aids, coupled with an absence of inclusive transport systems. Sule described these challenges as a burden that continues to weigh heavily on members of the association, especially in the face of the country’s growing economic difficulties.

“Despite these obstacles, we remain resilient. Progress can only be achieved through collective advocacy and united efforts,” Comrade Sule said. He called on members to share innovative ideas to propel the association forward and revealed plans to expand the annual get-together into an even more grand and inclusive event for other disability clusters in the state.

“We in the EXCO believe that a tree cannot make a forest. That is why we must work together as a family united by mutual love and a shared vision. This occasion is not only about entertainment and refreshment but also a moment to reflect on the past year and strengthen our hope for a brighter future,” Sule added.

The event received national recognition, with the National Treasurer of NAPWPD, Mr. Daniel Ibrahim Arome, representing the National President, Comrade Mohammed Ridwan Abdullahi. Arome commended the Kogi State Chapter for setting a precedent by hosting the end-of-year event, describing it as a “shining example” for other state chapters to emulate.

“This milestone is a testament to your hard work and unity. The national leadership is proud of your initiative and is committed to supporting efforts like this that strengthen our community and advocacy. The national president sends his regards and looks forward to partnering with you to improve the lives of persons with physical disabilities across Nigeria,” Arome said.

The event also featured goodwill messages from notable dignitaries, including Hon. Solomon Yahaya, Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) in Kogi State; Dr. Samuel Alhassan, a Lokoja-based medical practitioner; and Mr. Abel Osemwingie Isaac, a PWD-friendly police officer from Edo State, known for his advocacy and marriage to a disability rights activist, Mrs. Deborah Waniko. The State Secretary of NAPWPD and staff of the Kogi State Office for Disability Affairs (KOSODA) were also present, further lending credence to the event’s success.

As the evening drew to a close, attendees were united in their resolve to continue advocating for their rights and fostering a community built on love, support, and mutual respect. With a renewed sense of purpose and optimism, the Kogi NAPWPD reaffirmed its commitment to being a beacon of hope for PWDs in the state.

The end-of-year gathering not only celebrated the association’s achievements but also served as a rallying call for greater inclusion, unity, and collective action to address the challenges faced by PWDs. It was indeed a day to remember—a testament to the resilience, strength, and unbreakable spirit of the disability community in Kogi State.

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