As Christians across Nigeria commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ and the nation prepares to usher in the New Year, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Chief Ayuba Burki Gufwan, has extended warm Christmas and New Year greetings to Nigerians, with a strong call for unity, compassion, and renewed commitment to disability inclusion.
In a goodwill message issued on behalf of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities and persons with disabilities across the country, Chief Gufwan described Christmas as a solemn and reflective season that reminds Nigerians of the enduring values of love, tolerance, sacrifice, and selflessness—values he said are essential for national cohesion and peaceful coexistence.
According to him, the festive season offers an opportunity for citizens to look beyond differences and reaffirm their shared humanity. “As we celebrate Christmas, it is important that we exemplify the values that bind us together as one nation. Love, tolerance, and sacrifice are not only Christian values; they are the foundation upon which a peaceful and united Nigeria can be built,” he remarked.
The NCPWD boss paid glowing tribute to persons with disabilities, whom he described as symbols of resilience, courage, and determination. He acknowledged the unique challenges faced by persons with disabilities but emphasized that, despite these barriers, many are making remarkable contributions across various sectors of national life.
“Persons with disabilities continue to inspire us with their strength and determination. Across education, entrepreneurship, sports, public service, and advocacy, they are contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s growth and development. Their stories are proof that disability is not inability,” Chief Gufwan stated.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities to advancing the rights, welfare, and full inclusion of persons with disabilities in line with the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act. He stressed that the Commission remains focused on creating an enabling environment where persons with disabilities can access equal opportunities, essential services, and public amenities without barriers.
Chief Gufwan further called on government institutions, the private sector, civil society organizations, development partners, religious bodies, and individuals to collaborate with the Commission in promoting disability inclusion. According to him, inclusion is a collective responsibility that requires intentional action, policy support, and attitudinal change.
As Nigerians prepare to step into a new year, the NCPWD Executive Secretary offered prayers for peace, joy, and renewed hope, especially for persons with disabilities who often face social exclusion, poverty, and limited access to basic services.
“My prayer is that this Christmas and the New Year will bring peace, joy, and happiness to all Nigerians. I urge us to recommit ourselves to building a Nigeria where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive; a Nigeria where the rights of persons with disabilities are respected, protected, and upheld,” he said.
Chief Gufwan also used the festive period to appeal to Nigerians to extend genuine support to persons with disabilities, not only through charity but through love, kindness, compassion, and inclusion. He emphasized that true giving goes beyond gifts to creating systems and communities where no one is left behind.
“In this season of giving, let us reach out to persons with disabilities with love and compassion. Together, we can make a difference and build a more inclusive Nigeria for present and future generations,” he added.
He concluded by wishing Nigerians a peaceful, hitch-free festive season and a happy and prosperous New Year, expressing optimism that the country will emerge stronger, more united, and more committed to building a brighter and more inclusive future for all.
