Abuja, Nigeria – November 13, 2024
In a significant move toward empowering Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) across Nigeria, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) renewed its partnership with SUNTECH, a prominent prosthetics and orthotics provider. This collaboration aims to increase the local production and accessibility of essential assistive devices, offering thousands of Nigerians with disabilities a pathway to greater independence, mobility, and improved quality of life.
At a high-level meeting in Abuja, Chief Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Chief Gufwan, outlined the far-reaching implications of the partnership, underscoring the Commission’s unwavering commitment to transforming the lives of PWDs. Following the discussions, Chief Gufwan visited SUNTECH’s state-of-the-art fabrication center, a pioneering facility equipped with advanced technology to produce customized prosthetic and orthotic solutions tailored for Nigerian users.
“This partnership marks a turning point for Nigeria and the disability community,” said Chief Gufwan. “Nigerians possess a unique resilience and creativity, and we have the potential to create assistive solutions that meet global standards. This collaboration with SUNTECH is our first major step in ensuring these solutions are accessible, affordable, and available to those who need them the most.”
During the tour, Chief Gufwan interacted with several patients at the facility, many of whom shared positive stories of the independence and confidence they had regained through SUN-TECH’s prosthetic and orthotic support. Observing the precision of SUN-TECH’s technology and the dedication of its staff, Chief Gufwan expressed optimism that these locally produced devices would bridge a critical gap in the disability community.
This partnership, Chief Gufwan emphasized, is aligned with NCPWD’s broader mission to support Nigeria’s “living legends”—veterans, accident survivors, and PWDs who have overcome immense challenges and contributed significantly to national progress. He affirmed that the NCPWD’s work is driven by a vision of an inclusive Nigeria, where PWDs are respected, empowered, and provided equal opportunities to thrive.
Prince Sunny Okachukwu, CEO of SUN-TECH, shared his appreciation for Chief Gufwan’s leadership and praised his dedication to uplifting PWDs. “Chief Gufwan is a hero, truly committed to the grassroots work required to improve the lives of persons with disabilities,” said Okachukwu. “His advocacy through Project Beautiful Gate has had an extraordinary impact, touching thousands of lives. At SUN-TECH, we are honored to work alongside the NCPWD, and we are dedicated to deepening our support for the disability community in Nigeria.”
The collaboration between NCPWD and SUN-TECH is expected to yield multiple benefits, particularly by addressing the high cost of importing prosthetic and orthotic devices. This partnership will ensure that these assistive tools are produced locally, making them more accessible and affordable for Nigerians with disabilities. Beyond immediate benefits, the partnership holds promise for job creation and skill development in the field of assistive technology, as local expertise in prosthetics and orthotics manufacturing grows.
Furthermore, Chief Gufwan’s visit to SUN-TECH highlighted the organization’s commitment to reshaping narratives around disability in Nigeria. In his closing remarks, he urged Nigerians to recognize the resilience and value of PWDs and to join in building a more inclusive society.
Through the support of dedicated allies like SUN-TECH, the NCPWD is charting a transformative path forward, not only by providing vital devices but by fostering a society that celebrates diversity, resilience, and the contributions of every individual. This renewed partnership signals a brighter future for Nigerians with disabilities, empowering them with the tools, resources, and respect they deserve to lead dignified and fulfilling lives.
The partnership’s progress will be monitored by the NCPWD’s Press and Public Relations Unit, which remains committed to updating the public on the milestones achieved through this initiative.
