Abuja, Nigeria – August 31, 2024 – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Abdullahi Aliyu Usman following his recent appointment as the Executive Secretary of the Kebbi State Commission for Persons With Disabilities. The appointment, a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to promote the rights and inclusion of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) across Nigeria, has been widely praised by stakeholders and advocates alike.
In a statement personally signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, President Tinubu lauded Usman’s appointment as a fitting recognition of his tireless dedication to the disability community. Until his appointment, Mr. Abdullahi Aliyu Usman was serving as the National Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD), a role in which he garnered widespread respect for his leadership and advocacy.
The announcement of Usman’s new role was made public in a press release issued by Yahaya Sarki, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor of Kebbi State. According to the release, Governor Nasir Idris approved the constitution of the Kebbi State Governing Board for the Disability Commission, with Abdullahi Aliyu Usman appointed as the Executive Secretary. The board, which is to be chaired by Anas Malami, also includes other notable members such as Jafar Bawa Aljannare, Aminu Ambursa, Abdulrazak Muhammad (Madiho), Mardiya Ahmad, and Musa Sarki Sadisu.
A Well-Deserved Appointment
President Tinubu’s message highlighted Usman’s longstanding commitment to advancing the rights of PWDs in Nigeria. “Your appointment as the Executive Secretary of the Kebbi State Disability Commission is a well-deserved recognition of your unwavering dedication to the inclusion, empowerment, and advocacy for Persons With Disabilities,” the President’s message read. “I have no doubt that your wealth of experience, passion, and dedication will significantly advance the work of the Commission.”
The President also emphasized the importance of this appointment in the broader context of his administration’s commitment to disability inclusion. Since taking office, President Tinubu has made it clear that the rights of PWDs are a priority, and the appointment of leaders like Usman to key positions is a reflection of this commitment. The President expressed confidence that under Usman’s leadership, the Kebbi State Commission for Persons With Disabilities would continue to champion the rights and welfare of PWDs, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met.
A New Era for Disability Advocacy in Kebbi State
The establishment of the Kebbi State Disability Commission and the appointment of its governing board mark the beginning of a new era for disability advocacy in the state. For years, PWDs in Kebbi State, like in many parts of Nigeria, have faced significant challenges, including barriers to education, healthcare, and employment, as well as a lack of accessible infrastructure. The creation of the Commission is seen as a crucial step towards addressing these issues and ensuring that PWDs are fully included in all aspects of society.
The formal inauguration of the Governing Board by Governor Idris, which is expected to take place soon, will set the stage for the Commission to begin its work in earnest. Under Usman’s leadership, the Commission is anticipated to play a key role in driving policies and initiatives that will improve the lives of PWDs in Kebbi State. This includes working to ensure that the state’s infrastructure is accessible to all, that PWDs have access to quality healthcare and education, and that they are provided with opportunities for meaningful employment.
National Support and Collaboration
In his congratulatory message, President Tinubu assured Usman of the full support of the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities. The President emphasized the importance of collaboration between state and federal agencies to advance the cause of disability inclusion. “The success of your work in Kebbi State will have a ripple effect across the nation, and I am eager to see the positive impact that your leadership will bring,” the President stated.
The support from the federal level is expected to be instrumental in helping the Kebbi State Commission for Persons With Disabilities achieve its goals. The challenges facing PWDs are complex and multifaceted, and addressing them requires a coordinated effort that involves both state and federal resources. With the backing of the President and his administration, Usman is well-positioned to lead the Commission in making a real difference in the lives of PWDs in Kebbi State.
Looking Ahead
As Comrade Abdullahi Aliyu Usman prepares to take on his new role as Executive Secretary, there is a sense of optimism within the disability community in Kebbi State. His appointment is seen not only as a recognition of his past achievements but also as a sign of the state’s commitment to making meaningful progress in the area of disability rights.
The challenges ahead are significant, but Usman’s track record suggests that he is more than capable of meeting them. His leadership will be crucial in ensuring that the Commission fulfills its mandate and that PWDs in Kebbi State are provided with the opportunities and support they need to lead fulfilling lives.
The formal inauguration of the Governing Board will undoubtedly be a milestone event, marking the official start of a new chapter in the fight for disability rights in Kebbi State. As the state moves forward with its plans to improve the lives of PWDs, the eyes of the nation will be watching, eager to see the positive changes that Usman’s leadership is expected to bring.
