By Ishaku Kigbu, Head of Media & Publicity, NCPWD | May 19, 2025
Jos, Plateau State – In a groundbreaking move toward inclusive economic empowerment, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has launched an Agricultural Skills Training and Empowerment Program tailored for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Plateau State.
The six-day training, held at the serene Novel Suites and Resort, Rayfield, Jos, from May 19 to 24, 2025, is a bold stride toward equipping PWDs with the tools, techniques, and confidence needed to excel in Nigeria’s agriculture sector.
The initiative, implemented in collaboration with Zebra Multiservices Limited, is part of NCPWD’s broader mission to break systemic barriers and create viable, sustainable livelihoods for persons with disabilities across the nation.
Representing the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Burki Ayuba Gufwan, the Director of the Department of Social Integration, Mr. Lawrence Idemudia, officially flagged off the training, emphasizing that no Nigerian should be left behind in the nation’s development journey.
“This is more than just a training — it is a powerful statement of inclusion and empowerment,” said Hon. Burki Ayuba Gufwan in his address. “We recognize the strength and capability of persons with disabilities and we are here to provide not only skills, but also the tools and access needed to succeed.”
Farming as a Pathway to Independence
The training covers both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture, enabling participants to acquire skills they can immediately put into practice in their communities. The curriculum has been carefully tailored to address the needs of PWDs, factoring in accessibility, adaptation, and long-term viability.
Hon. Gufwan revealed that the initiative goes beyond just knowledge-sharing. Participants and other PWDs across Nigeria will soon receive farming tools and fertilizers, further cementing the Commission’s commitment to practical, actionable empowerment.
“This is just the beginning. We are not only training, we are empowering for impact. In the coming weeks, we will commence the distribution of farm inputs—fertilizers, tools, and other essentials—to help participants kickstart or scale up their farming ventures,” Gufwan assured.
Voices of Encouragement and Inclusion
Also present at the event was Mr. Aaron Shindol, Chairman of JONAPWD Plateau State Chapter, who applauded the Commission’s efforts and urged participants to fully engage with the training and become change-makers in their communities.
The CEO of Zebra Multiservices Ltd., the program’s implementing partner, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of maximizing the opportunity to promote self-reliance and economic resilience among PWDs.
“Agriculture is a great equalizer. With proper training and access, persons with disabilities can become leaders in food production and agro-innovation,” he said.
The speakers encouraged participants not only to absorb the knowledge but to become ambassadors of inclusion, sharing their experiences and skills with others and helping build a ripple effect of empowerment throughout Plateau State and beyond.
A Vision for Inclusive Agriculture Nationwide
This training is part of a wider strategy by the NCPWD to roll out inclusive agricultural programs across Nigeria. The Commission plans to replicate this model in other states, ensuring that PWDs are included as key players in national development sectors such as food security, agribusiness, and rural innovation.
“We are sowing seeds today that will grow into forests of inclusion tomorrow,” Gufwan declared. “With the right support, persons with disabilities won’t just participate — they will lead.”
The atmosphere at the launch was one of hope, determination, and renewed purpose as participants expressed their excitement about the prospects of becoming farmers, agribusiness owners, and advocates of inclusive growth.
As the training continues throughout the week, it stands as a beacon of what is possible when policy meets passion — and when empowerment is intentional, inclusive, and sustained.
