The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has reaffirmed its dedication to fostering scholarship opportunities and providing quality education for individuals with disabilities across the nation.
The Executive Secretary, James Lalu, asserted this commitment on Tuesday during the gathering organized by the Voice of Disability Initiative (VDI) to mark the 2023 International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Lalu emphasized the NCPWD’s commitment not only to offering scholarships but also to ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive the student loans pledged by President Bola Tinubu.
Anticipating positive developments in 2024, he declared it to be a “year of maximum benefit” for persons with disabilities, expressing eagerness to collaborate with VDI and other organizations for the betterment of the disabled community in Nigeria.
During the event, Catherine Edeh, the Executive Director of VDI, disclosed that the stakeholders’ meeting served the dual purpose of unveiling VDI’s comprehensive five-year strategic plan (2023-2027) and presenting a quarterly newsletter.
Additionally, it provided a platform to share the outcomes of stakeholders’ engagements in Ebonyi, Kwara, and Enugu states.
Emphasizing the need to combat discrimination against persons with disabilities, Edeh urged for an end to such prejudiced actions.
Meanwhile, Daniel Uwaezuoke, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOT) for VDI, lauded the timely unveiling of VDI’s strategic plan.
He noted that the government and development partners are increasingly focusing on inclusive plans and development, making the meeting a vital opportunity for forging new partnerships and collaboration agendas.
Chijioke Nwafor, a member of VDI BOT, delivered a powerful message, urging parents to recognize and nurture the potential within their child’s disability.
He advocated for acceptance and encouragement, emphasizing that disabilities harbor unique abilities.
Nwafor advised parents against concealing or overindulging a child with a disability but rather encouraged providing proper training and support.
