— 60 Tricycle Wheelchairs Distributed in Kaduna as Collaboration Sparks Hope in Rural Communities
Kafanchan, Kaduna State — August 6, 2025
In a bold step toward advancing the mobility and independence of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria, the National Commission for Persons with Disability (NCPWD) has reiterated its unwavering commitment to promoting the dignity, inclusion, and empowerment of PWDs through access to vital assistive devices.
This affirmation came during a significant wheelchair distribution event held in Kafanchan, Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State, where 60 tricycle wheelchairs were presented to beneficiaries. The initiative was organized by Songs of Joy Foundation in collaboration with Beautiful Gate Handicapped People Centre, drawing support from key stakeholders and sponsors.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, emphasized that mobility aids are more than just physical devices—they are lifelines of opportunity, enabling PWDs to navigate daily life with dignity, pursue education, learn skills, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the nation’s economy.
“Mobility aids are not merely devices, but tools of empowerment. They break barriers, open doors, and serve as a catalyst for the full inclusion of PWDs in Nigeria’s development,” Gufwan declared passionately.
The event kicked off with an inspiring address by the Chief Executive Officer of Songs of Joy Foundation, Mrs. Maryam Shadrach Michael, who described the donation as part of the Foundation’s broader mission to restore dignity and promote freedom of movement for people with disabilities, especially in rural and underserved areas.
“Today is not just about wheelchairs—it is about possibility, dignity, and transformation,” Mrs. Maryam said. “With these mobility aids, we believe that beneficiaries will go on to record groundbreaking achievements in their lives.”
She extended heartfelt appreciation to the NCPWD, Beautiful Gate Centre, partners, and donors for their continued support and called on more individuals and institutions to rally around the disability community, especially at the grassroots.
Representing the Beautiful Gate Handicapped People Centre, Sandra Nanbam, the Centre’s Media and Program Director, revealed that over the past 20 years, their organization has distributed more than 40,000 wheelchairs across Nigeria and in three other African countries.
“This distribution is not a one-time event; it is part of an ongoing legacy of inclusion and support,” she noted.
Community leaders from the disability community were also present and full of gratitude. Mr. Habila Anthony, President of the Southern Kaduna Disability Community, and Mr. Yohanna Ishaku Dangana, Vice Chairman representing PWDs in Jema’a LGA, expressed deep appreciation to the donors. They emphasized the need for expanded support to various clusters of persons with disabilities, including the visually impaired, the hearing impaired, and those with physical disabilities, especially at the grassroots level.
The voice of the beneficiaries added a touching emotional layer to the day’s event. Phoebe Jonathan and Habiba Abdulkareem, who spoke on behalf of the recipients, described the occasion as a “landmark moment” that has brought relief and renewed hope to their lives.
“This gesture has changed our lives,” they said. “We can now move around more easily and independently. We are deeply grateful to the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Songs of Joy Foundation, and Beautiful Gate Centre for remembering us in these remote areas.”
In his closing remarks, Ishaku Kigbu, Head of Media and Publicity at NCPWD, stressed that the Commission remains resolute in its mission to ensure that no person with a disability is left behind.
“This distribution is not just about aid—it’s about agency. It’s about giving people the tools to thrive. Together, we are building a more inclusive and compassionate Nigeria,” he stated.
As the wheelchairs rolled out and found new homes, one thing was clear: through partnership, compassion, and commitment, hope is being restored and lives are being transformed—one mobility aid at a time.
