By Correspondent in Minna.
The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Niger State chapter, has called on Governor Mohammed Umar Bago to fully implement the 2018 Disability Law, which mandates state governments to reserve five percent of job placements for persons with disabilities.
The association stressed that not all persons with disabilities wish to resort to street begging or living as destitute. Rather, they are often compelled to do so because of denial of equal opportunities in employment, which would otherwise enable them to support themselves and their families.
Speaking on the plight of members in Minna during the weekend,Mallam Ibrahim Ndako, Chairman of JONAPWD in Niger State, said the association has consistently reminded the government of its obligations but has only recorded partial compliance.
“It is not a matter of begging. It is our right and entitlement. We are reminding the Governor of the need to respect the 2018 Disability Law by granting five percent job opportunities to persons with disabilities,” Ndako said.
According to him, despite repeated engagements, the state government has so far offered only 30 job slots—one each from the 25 local government areas and five from a single LGA—falling short of the statutory quota.
Ndako also expressed disappointment that the appointment of Salihu Abdul Paiko as Special Coordinator to oversee disability affairs has not translated into the required level of job placements for his members.
On education, he acknowledged the facelift given to the School for the Handicapped but lamented the shortage of instructional materials and qualified resource persons, particularly for visually impaired students.
Ndako further noted that providing just 20 male and 10 female jobs cannot substitute the five percent affirmative action mandated by law. He urged Governor Bago to increase employment opportunities for persons with disabilities and demonstrate genuine commitment to their welfare and inclusion.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
