In an effort to improve the socio-economic status of Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria, the Executive Secretary, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Mr James David Lalu has led the Management and staff of the Commission on an advocacy visit to the Central Bank of Nigeria recently in Abuja .
The visit was mainly to seek for opportunities that will alleviate the living standard of PWDs in Nigeria.While Addressing the Deputy Governor of the apex Bank in charge of Financial System Stability and Chairman National Financial inclusion technical Committee, Mrs Aishah Ahmad, the ES highlighted financial inclusion for PWDs; the provision of accessible Automated Teller Machine (ATM), creating accessible structures for the physically disabled, as well as ensuring considerable compliance with the 5% employment quota as provided in the 2018 Disability Act.
Mr Lalu further reiterated that the Nation can only experience growth if the Citizens are carried along in the policy implementations.
“Let me use this medium to inform you that the majority of PWDs are talented and skillful enough to handle official issues” He assured.
In a press conference signed by Mbanefo JohnMichaels I, Head Press and Public Relations Unit, NCPWD, The ES however, decried the harsh effects of the cashless policy which he said is making life more difficult for PWDs on a daily basis.
Reacting to the entreaties by the Executive Secretary, the Deputy Governor, Mrs Aisha Ahmad commended the present administration led by President Muhammadu Buhari for accenting to the Disability Act and for establishing the Commission which she said will always advocate for the welfare and yearnings of Persons With Disabilities across the country.
She equally disclosed that CBN is working consciously to create an alternative Banking system that will make life easier for PWDs in Nigeria.
“We are considering the introduction of skill acquisition programmes that can empower Persons With Disabilities and take them off the streets and eventually make them self- reliant,” she revealed.
