Kafanchan, Kaduna State — August 6, 2025
In a heartwarming event that radiated hope and renewed commitment to inclusion, the Nigerian government, in partnership with non-governmental organizations, has reaffirmed its dedication to improving the lives of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) through the provision of mobility aids and appliances across the country.
This assurance was delivered by the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Mr. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, during a wheelchair donation ceremony held in Kafanchan, Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The event was organized by the Songs of Joy Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation committed to restoring dignity and mobility to people with disabilities.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Gufwan—who is also the Chief Executive Officer of the Beautiful Gate Handicapped People Centre—described mobility aids as life-changing tools, not just mere devices.
“Mobility aids are not just about movement. They are lifelines that empower persons with disabilities to access education, acquire skills, and contribute meaningfully to the national economy,” Gufwan remarked passionately.
He emphasized the Federal Government’s resolve to ensure that no Nigerian with a disability is left behind, adding that access to mobility support is a critical step toward real inclusion.
60 Wheelchairs, 60 Lives Touched
At the center of the event was the donation of 60 wheelchairs to deserving beneficiaries — a gesture described as life-transforming by both organizers and recipients.
The Chief Executive Officer of Songs of Joy Foundation, Mrs. Maryam Shadrach Michael, explained that the donation aligns with the Foundation’s mission to promote mobility and restore the dignity of PWDs across Nigeria.
“These wheelchairs are more than equipment; they are instruments of hope. They open doors for education, enterprise, and social inclusion. We are here to say, ‘You matter. You are not forgotten’,” she said.
Mrs. Maryam expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Beautiful Gate Handicapped People Centre, along with other sponsors and partners, for their unwavering support in bringing this vision to life.
She further encouraged the recipients to use their new mobility devices as stepping stones toward achieving their dreams, urging them to break barriers and chase greatness.
Over 40,000 Wheelchairs and Counting
Representing the Beautiful Gate Handicapped People Centre, Sandra Nanbam, the Media and Programme Director, highlighted the Centre’s far-reaching impact.
“Over the past 20 years, we’ve distributed more than 40,000 wheelchairs across Nigeria and in three other African countries. Our work is driven by love, dignity, and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to thrive,” Nanbam said.
She, however, cautioned the beneficiaries against selling or misusing the wheelchairs, emphasizing that they must be used judiciously and for their intended purpose.
“This is not charity. This is empowerment. Use it to transform your life,” she urged.
Voices of Gratitude and New Beginnings
In emotional remarks that reflected both appreciation and hope, community leaders and beneficiaries thanked the organisers and donors for their thoughtful intervention.
Mr. Habila Anthony, President of the Southern Kaduna Disabled Community, and Mr. Yohanna Ishaku Dangana, Vice Chairman representing PWDs in Jema’a LGA, expressed deep gratitude for what they described as a “life-changing act of kindness.” They called on the beneficiaries to honour the gesture by utilizing the mobility aids to pursue purpose-driven lives.
Speaking on behalf of the recipients, Phoebe Jonathan and Habiba Abdulkareem described the day as a “landmark moment” in their lives.
“Today, we walk into a new chapter of freedom and dignity. This wheelchair is not just a gift, it is a key to the life we’ve been praying for. We say thank you and may God bless everyone who made this possible,” they said, visibly emotional.
Inclusion in Action
This event stands as a strong example of public-private partnership working to foster inclusion and accessibility for all. The collaboration between government agencies and NGOs is a testament to the power of unity in addressing the pressing needs of the disability community in Nigeria.
As the wheelchairs were wheeled away by smiling beneficiaries — some surrounded by joyful family members — the message was clear: Inclusion is not a privilege; it is a right.
And with voices like Mr. Gufwan’s leading the charge, the hope is that this right will be fully realized — one wheelchair, one life at a time.
